midlife crisis

a period of psychological distress thought to occur in some individuals during the middle years of adulthood, roughly from ages 35 to 65. Causes may include significant life events and health or occupational problems and concerns. However, no empirical data exist to support the notion that this distress is specific to midlife, and many researchers consider the midlife crisis a myth. See also age crisis. [coined in 1965 by Canadian consulting organizational psychologist Elliot Jaques (1917–2003)]

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Psychology term of the day

October 18th 2024

time out (TO)

Sorry, "time-out-to" is not in the Dictionary of Psychology. Please report to APA if you believe this is an error.