Women over 50 - Psychological Perspectives (Hardcover, 2007 ed.)

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 Fifty: 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, which covers illness, body image, and exercise;