Date of Award
1994
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
PHD - Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Education
Abstract
Examines the experience of midlife and the expectations of midlife and aging of 22 Caucasian, African American, Latina, Chinese, and Asian-Indian midlife women, ages 40 to 60, who differ in sexual orientation, income, employment, marital and parenting status. Influenced by social and family expectations for women in their early years, most women expected midlife would include husband, home and family. The women describe midlife as positive and fulfilling, disclaim the relevance of "midlife crisis" to their lives and report higher levels of self-confidence, self-reliance and self-understanding. Tempered by an awareness of imperfect circumstances in their lives and compassion for their own human qualities, most women express satisfaction with their life choices and view the prospect of aging in a positive light. For some women, financial difficulties and the absence of an intimate relationship with another person cause displeasure in midlife and a less positive anticipation of aging.
Language
English
Number of Pages
141
Embargo Period
6-10-2017
Recommended Citation
Panchuck, Paula DeAngelis, "Midlife Experience of Contemporary Women Views Along the Midway" (1994). Educational Studies Dissertations. 115.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/education_dissertations/115
Rights
The author owns the copyright to this work.
