Possible selves in adult development: Linking theory and research Book Chapter

Frazier, LD, Hooker, K. (2006). Possible selves in adult development: Linking theory and research . 41-60.

cited authors

  • Frazier, LD; Hooker, K

authors

abstract

  • In this chapter we explore the theoretical relevance of possible selves for understanding adult development. We first describe the theoretical anchors that have influenced the way we conceptualize and examine possible selves. Next, we discuss the importance of understanding development in adulthood in terms of adults' possible selves and psychosocial outcomes. We then introduce Bronfenbrenner's (1977, 1979) contextual-ecological model of development, which states that human development is best understood within the ecological settings in which it unfolds. We use this model to present nearly two decades of research in our laboratories examining the structure and function of possible selves and to highlight the inter-related, contextual, and ecologically-relevant nature of our work on possible selves. Finally, we articulate some potential avenues for future research on possible selves in adulthood. "I see myself at the summit of Denali, arms out-stretched, turning in circles, taking in the views, I'm totally euphoric. In the back of my mind, I hear the refrain "The hills are alive..." I'm not really Julie Andrews, more like 40-year-old Julie Andrews with the endurance of Chantal Mauduit. Anyway, I think about this every day as I train for my next climb." (Female, age 40) "I just want to be well-enough to bake cookies for my grandchildren." (Female, age 67). "Most important...I want to be a good father. Not mean and angry like my father was. I want to be able to provide for my wife and kids and have a loving family life. First, though, I have to get my degree, find a wife, then buy a home, and that will set the plan in motion." (Male, age 19). © 2006 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.

publication date

  • December 1, 2006

International Standard Book Number (ISBN) 13

start page

  • 41

end page

  • 60