The Psychology of Learning and Motivation

Chapter Ten

Adaptation for growth as a common goal throughout the lifespan: Why and how

Rachel Wu^a,*; Carla Strickland-Hughes^b    a Department of Psychology, UC Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States^b Psychology Department, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, United States^* Corresponding author: email address: [e-mail]

Abstract

Thriving in a constantly changing environment requires human learners to adapt. In turn, adaptation requires learning new information and skills (i.e., adaptation for growth). Although specific personal goals change across the lifespan, the need for adaptation for growth is common across all ages. Yet, research with older adults often focuses on adaptation to loss, whereas research with infants and children ...