Women over 50 : Psychological Perspectives (Softcover reprint of hardcover 1st ed. 2007)

A woman’s middle age had traditionally been regarded as a time of loss and decline.

But in the wake of the women's movement and other societal and cultural events, a profound shift has taken place.

Far from being marginalized, midlife women stand at the forefront of a great transformation of cultural perceptions and attitudes.

They are rejecting stereotypes, embracing new opportunities, and forming what this important book terms "a new collective middle-aged identity."Women over 50: Psychological Perspectives analyzes the challenges, benefits, coping strategies, problems, and accomplishments associated with the midlife experience.

Ten chapters present the state of research (and correct longstanding myths) regarding significant aspects of middle-aged women's lives:Mind-body: illness, body image, exerciseLove, romance, and sexualityFriendship and support systems"The sandwich generation"Re-creating the role of grandmothersRetirement and financial stabilityUsing personal empowerment to empower othersQuality of life and future directionsWomen over 50 bridges a major knowledge gap in the feminist-psychology literature, making it an essential resource for clinicians and advanced students.

It balances optimism and realism about older women’s lives—and younger women’s futures.