If an older adult feels their life has been unsuccessful, what is the negative outcome of their development called?

When an older adult reflects on their life and feels that it has been unsuccessful, they may experience feelings of despair. This reaction is associated with a critical stage in psychosocial development identified by Erik Erikson, known as "integrity vs. despair." In this stage, which typically occurs in late adulthood, individuals assess their lives and come to terms with their experiences.

If they view their lives positively and believe they have achieved a sense of fulfillment, they develop integrity. Conversely, if they focus on regrets, unfulfilled goals, and missed opportunities, they may fall into a state of despair. This despair is characterized by feelings of hopelessness, bitterness, and dissatisfaction with life, negatively impacting their overall mental health and well-being.

Recognizing this critical stage is important for understanding how older adults process their life experiences, which has implications for caregiving, counseling, and social support.