Human Growth and Development

Schaie's Model of Cognitive Development Klaus Warner Schaie proposed a model that explores how cognitive abilities evolve throughout adulthood. His framework focuses on how adults use their thinking skills in real-world contexts, reflecting the changing priorities and demands of different life stages. ●​ Emphasis: Unlike Piaget, Schaie’s model focuses on adulthood and the practical application of cognitive skills to solve everyday problems. ●​ Stages: Schaie identified stages in adult cognitive development, showing how thinking shifts based on goals, responsibilities, and life experiences.

Stage

Focus

Characteristics

Acquisitive (Childhood and Adolescence) Achieving (Young Adulthood)

To gain knowledge and skills.

It focuses on acquiring information and skills for future use, with children and adolescents dedicated to learning about the world. Young adults use cognitive skills to achieve personal and professional goals, like finishing education, starting a career, and forming relationships, with decision-making becoming more goal-oriented and practical. Middle-aged adults apply cognitive skills to manage family, work, and community responsibilities, balancing multiple roles and addressing others' needs. Involves managing & directing complex organizations or communities. It requires advanced cognitive skills for strategic planning, problem-solving & decision-making. Individuals focus on meaningful tasks, directing cognitive efforts towards activities that reflect their values and interests, often seeking to simplify life. May focus on tasks to ensure their legacy, like writing memoirs, creating wills, and sharing wisdom, reflecting on life achievements and contributions.

Applying knowledge to achieve long-term goals.

Responsible (Middle Adulthood)

Managing complex responsibilities.

Executive (Middle to Late Adulthood)

Overseeing complex systems.

Reintegrative (Late Adulthood)

Reflecting on life and simplifying tasks.

Legacy-Creating (Advanced Old Age)

Creating a legacy and making sense of life.

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