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6 - Why do some people thrive while others succumb to disease and stagnation?

Personality, social relations, and resilience

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 December 2010

By
Margaret L. Kern  and
Howard S. Friedman
Edited by
Prem S. Fry  and
Corey L. M. Keyes
Prem S. Fry
Affiliation:
Trinity Western University, British Columbia
Corey L. M. Keyes
Affiliation:
Emory University, Atlanta
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Summary

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the role that personality plays in resilience across the lifespan. The concept of personality captures a combination of genetic, familial, social, and cultural elements, and thus is very useful in understanding differential patterns of development. In particular, this chapter highlights findings from our work with the Terman Life Cycle Study, the longest longitudinal study conducted to date, to demonstrate how core aspects of the individual may impact how he or she travels life's pathways and reacts to life's challenges. Our findings suggest that temperamental predispositions, internal stress, coping responses, social relationships, and health behaviors may all be relevant to whether an individual will thrive and stay healthy in the face of challenge or succumb to illness and disease. By identifying the mechanisms involved, we can better understand risk and intervene more effectively, with the goal of increasing resilience as people age.

It is easy to observe striking individual differences in healthy aging. Consider these two cases drawn from our lifespan studies of longevity. Elmer was constantly on the go – involved in everything and friends with everyone. In the morning he raised funds for a benefit concert to support the children's hospital; in the afternoon he bowled with his buddies; in the evening he cared for his wife and enjoyed the company of his children and grandchildren.

Type
Chapter
Information
New Frontiers in Resilient Aging
Life-Strengths and Well-Being in Late Life
 , pp. 162 - 184
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2010

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