Peak-Experiences Among Americans in Midlife

Abstract

Though much attention, professionally and in popular American culture, has been accorded to midlife angst and turmoil, no published research has been conducted on peak-experiences during this major lifespan period. In this study, 153 people aged 40 to 65 years in the United States responded to a questionnaire asking them to describe a recent joyful experience and its subsequent impact on their outlook on life. They were also asked to rate it numerically on a 5-point Likert-type scale. Their qualitative reports were subsequently coded into 13 categories. Peaks involving interpersonal joy were reported significantly most frequently, more than all other categories combined. These were followed in frequency by those comprising respectively external achievement and personal growth. Small percentages involved religious peaks in either institutional or noninstitutional settings, recovery from illness/accident, nature, skill mastery, philosophical musing, developmental landmark, homecoming, nostalgia, and serenity. The implications for better understanding and optimizing midlife functioning are discussed, and future research avenues are highlighted.