At what age does middle adulthood generally start?

Middle adulthood is typically defined as the period of life that spans approximately from ages 40 to 65. It represents a stage where individuals often experience significant life transitions such as career advancements, family responsibilities, and reflections on life achievements. The age of 35 can be seen as the beginning of the transition into middle adulthood as individuals may start to feel some aspects of this stage, but it is more commonly accepted that true middle adulthood starts around the age of 40.

By recognizing that most developmental theories mark the onset of middle adulthood at age 40, it becomes clearer why this age is the most widely accepted threshold for this life stage. Understanding these age ranges is crucial for grasping the psychological, social, and physical changes that typically occur during this part of life. This grounding in developmental psychology helps individuals anticipate and navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with aging.