Developmental, Transitional, and Situational Crises Throughout the Life Span

This chapter explores relational processes, integrative frameworks, and practices that guide our understanding of life crises and transitions. Developmental transitions, growing self-awareness, social pressures, and stressful events can strike the heart of people's identity. Early intervention and skills training set the foundation to build on a child's potentials for developmental, social, and functional growth. Practical efforts and social connections reduce systemic distress and can support the family and child as they navigate developmental milestones and potential behavioral issues. Adults and children differ in development and maturity, and people in all age groups may face other developmental and medical issues. When children leave home for the world of work or even college, parents have to start their new chapter and may experience empty nest syndrome. The empty nest phenomenon is a time of crisis when the absence of their child creates a vacuum of interactions, responsibilities, and routines.