Changes in Creativity with Age: Data, Explanations, and Further Predictions

Abstract

Changes in creativity with age, it is argued, seem very probable. A variety of personal qualities usually found in creative people are examined. While conclusive evidence is sometimes lacking, it seems likely that most of these would change with age so as to affect creative productivity, usually adversely. Moreover, many theories of creativity representing a variety of intellectual traditions are discussed, and most of these predict aging decrements of some sort. However, it is also suggested that the creativity decline may vary, being more pronounced a) when the attribute of originality is predominant, b) in the sciences, as opposed to the arts and humanities, c) when certain motives, notably self-expression and sublimation of sexuality, are operative, and d) for male as compared to female creators. Finally, creativity may simply change rather than decline with age, with differing stylistic and thematic concerns gaining priority.