George Eman Vaillant has dedicated his career to charting adult development and the recovery processes from severe psychological challenges. His research delves into the empirical study of defense mechanisms, with a recent focus on successful aging and the nature of human happiness. Vaillant's work offers profound insights into the resilience of the human spirit and the pathways to a fulfilling life. He explores how individuals navigate adversity and find meaning throughout their lifespan.
At a time when people are living into their tenth decade, the longest longitudinal study of human development ever undertaken offers welcome news for old age: our lives evolve in our later years and often become more fulfilling. Among the surprising findings: people who do well in old age did not necessarily do so well in midlife, and vice versa.
At a time when many are living into their tenth decade, a significant longitudinal study reveals that our lives can become more fulfilling in later years. Initiated in 1938, the Grant Study of Adult Development tracked the physical and emotional health of over 200 men from their undergraduate days. The earlier work, "Adaptation to Life," explored their lives up to age 55, shedding light on adult maturation. Now, George Vaillant extends this research into the men’s nineties, documenting what it means to thrive well beyond traditional retirement. The study examines various aspects of male life, including relationships, politics, coping strategies, and the impact of alcohol use, which has been a major disruptor of health and happiness. Among the surprising findings, those who flourish in old age may not have excelled in midlife, and vice versa. It confirms that recovery from a troubled childhood is possible, while positive childhood memories provide lasting strength. Additionally, marriages tend to bring greater contentment after age 70, and physical aging post-80 is influenced more by habits formed before age 50 than by genetics. Ultimately, the ability to age gracefully and vibrantly appears to depend more on personal choices than on inherited traits.