Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which developmental task is primarily associated with middle age?

1. Learning and acquiring new skills and information

2. Rediscovering or developing satisfaction in one's relationship with a significant other

3. Relying strongly upon spiritual beliefs

4. Risk taking and its perceived consequences

The correct answer is: Rediscovering or developing satisfaction in one's relationship with a significant other

The developmental task primarily associated with middle age is rediscovering or developing satisfaction in one's relationship with a significant other. This phase of life often involves a reassessment of personal relationships, especially as individuals face life changes, such as children becoming independent or career transitions. During middle age, many people focus on reconnecting with partners, fostering intimacy, and ensuring that their relationships are fulfilling, which can lead to a renewed sense of satisfaction and emotional security. Middle age is a significant time for examining personal and romantic connections, which can result in deepening bonds or, conversely, necessitating reevaluation. Individuals may seek to strengthen their partnership or address unresolved issues as they reflect on their life journey thus far. In contrast, the other options may relate to developmental tasks, but they do not capture the primary focus of middle age. Learning new skills is often more associated with earlier stages of development or transitions; reliance on spiritual beliefs may occur at various life stages, not specifically during middle age; and risk-taking behavior tends to be more common in younger adults as they explore identity and independence. Thus, the emphasis on relationships during middle age is what distinctly defines this developmental task.