Integrity vs. Despair - Dec. 20 @ 8_26 pm
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Feb 20, 2024
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Integrity vs. Despair
How can a Christian cope with the experience of older adulthood and live victoriously? Describe "integrity versus despair" (Kail & Cavanaugh, 2019, p. 508-509) according to Erikson. Provide examples from the text and connect this specific crisis to Scripture.
Erikson's theory of psychosocial development says that the "integrity versus despair" stage happens when a person is an older adult. During this time, a person thinks about their life and accepts the choices and events that have shaped it. When someone can look back on their life
with a sense of satisfaction and acceptance, they have integrity. On the other hand, despair occurs when someone feels regret and bitterness about their past.
Christians can deal with the problems that come with getting older and live a victorious life by finding hope and meaning in their faith. This could mean looking for comfort and direction through prayer, the Bible, and help from others in the community. A Christian's faith in
God's love and power can give them strength and resilience when their health gets worse, they lose their freedom, or loved ones die.
In the Bible, there are many examples of individuals who endured pain and loss but found
hope and meaning through their faith. For instance, in Philippians 4:11–13, the apostle Paul talked about achieving satisfaction in Christ and enduring hardship. “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it
is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in
any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do
all things through him who gives me strength.” (
NIV Life Application Study Bible
, 2019). Job
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also shows how to be strong and accept God's plan, even when there is a lot of pain and loss (Job
1:20–22).
Christians can find meaning and purpose in their lives by looking at the "integrity versus despair" stage through the lens of their faith. In the end, they can win by believing in God's love and plan for their lives. This may entail practicing reconciliation, pursuing absolution, and discovering solace in the understanding that their value and sense of self-identity are rooted in their connection with God.
How can Christians view this phase in life with hope and perseverance?
Christians can view this phase in life with hope and perseverance by relying on their faith
and trust in God. They can find encouragement and strength in the promises of God and the teachings of Jesus, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. Christians can also find hope in the belief that this phase is temporary and that God has a plan for their lives, even in the midst of challenges. By staying connected to their faith community, seeking support from others,
and praying for guidance and strength, Christians can persevere through difficult times with hope
and confidence. Additionally, focusing on the positive aspects of life, practicing gratitude, and looking for opportunities for growth and learning can also help Christians maintain a hopeful and
perseverant attitude.
Remember, Erikson's concept of this phase recognizes both "integrity" (looking back on one's life and seeing purpose and accomplishment) and "despair" (looking back and grieving what has been lost/missed) (Kail & Cavanaugh, 2019, p. 508-509). Analyze
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both concepts in your post, identifying the pros and cons of each and how Christians can best navigate each.
As a Christian, I can view Erikson's concept of integrity and despair through the lens of faith. The concept of integrity, which involves looking back on one's life and finding purpose and accomplishment, can be seen as a positive aspect of this phase. It allows me to reflect on the ways in which God has worked in my life, the relationships I have nurtured, and the impact I have made. This can bring a sense of fulfillment and contentment, knowing that my life has had meaning and purpose.
On the other hand, the concept of despair, which involves looking back and grieving what
has been lost or missed, can be a challenging aspect of this phase. It may involve regret over missed opportunities, broken relationships, or unfulfilled dreams. However, as a Christian, I can navigate this by finding comfort in the belief that God is a God of redemption and restoration. I can seek forgiveness for any regrets or mistakes and trust that God can bring healing and wholeness to those areas of despair.
Furthermore, Christians can navigate both integrity and despair by seeking support and guidance from their faith community. This can provide opportunities for reflection, accountability, and encouragement. Additionally, prayer and meditation on scripture can help to bring a sense of peace and assurance, even in the face of regret or loss.
Ultimately, as a Christian, I can navigate this phase with hope and perseverance by focusing on the belief that God's grace and love are greater than any regrets or missed opportunities. This can bring a sense of peace and acceptance, allowing me to move forward with hope and purpose.
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Please describe and expand on both integrity and despair as potential responses to life changes in older adulthood in your discussion post. Provide examples of each.
Integrity and despair are two potential responses to life changes in older adulthood. Integrity is the sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes from looking back on one's life and seeing purpose and meaning. It involves a sense of wholeness and completeness, as well as a feeling of pride and fulfillment in one's achievements. For example, an older adult who has spent their life volunteering at a local charity may look back on their life with a sense of integrity, knowing that they have made a positive impact on their community.
Despair, on the other hand, is a sense of sadness and regret that comes from looking back on one's life and grieving what has been lost or missed. It involves a sense of disappointment or sorrow over unfulfilled dreams, missed opportunities, or broken relationships. For example, an older adult who has lost touch with their children may look back on their life with a sense of despair, wishing they had made more effort to maintain those relationships.
Both integrity and despair can be common responses to life changes in older adulthood. As individuals enter this phase of life, they may experience a range of emotions as they reflect on
their past and contemplate their future. However, as Christians, we can find hope and meaning in
both responses. We can celebrate the integrity that comes from a life well-lived, while also finding comfort in the belief that God is a God of redemption and restoration, even in the face of despair. By seeking support from our faith community and turning to God in prayer, we can navigate these responses with grace and perseverance.
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References
Kail, R. V., & Cavanaugh, J. C. (2019). Human development: A life-span view
(8th ed.). Cengage.
NIV Life application study bible
(Third ed.). (2019). Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.