Which of the following statements about the midlife crisis is accurate according to research in developmental psychology?

• A. Most adults experience a midlife crisis as a universal and inevitable stage.
• B. All individuals who experience a midlife crisis report severe psychological distress.
• C. The midlife crisis typically occurs before the age of 30.
• D. Research shows that the midlife crisis is not universal and many adults do not experience it.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a midlife crisis: It is commonly described as a period of emotional turmoil in middle adulthood, often involving self-reflection and reassessment of life goals.
2. Review empirical research findings in developmental psychology regarding the prevalence of midlife crises among adults.
3. Note that research indicates the midlife crisis is not a universal or inevitable stage; many adults do not experience significant distress or crisis during midlife.
4. Recognize that when midlife crises do occur, they vary widely in intensity and are not always accompanied by severe psychological distress.
5. Understand that the typical age range for a midlife crisis is generally considered to be middle adulthood (around 40 to 60 years), not before age 30.