Which term describes a view of adulthood as a sudden, abrupt shift in roles?

Which term describes a view of adulthood as a sudden, abrupt shift in roles?

• A. Continuous transition
• B. Discontinuous transition
• C. Longitudinal perspective
• D. The abstemious approach

Answer: (B)

When adulthood is seen as a sudden, abrupt shift in roles, the term fits a discontinuous transition. This view emphasizes rapid changes in social status and responsibilities—like leaving school, gaining independence, starting a career, or becoming a parent—occurring in a relatively short period rather than gradually over time. A continuous transition, by contrast, would involve gradual, incremental changes in roles and expectations. The other options don’t describe this idea: a longitudinal perspective is about studying changes over time, and the abstemious approach relates to self-control or abstinence, not how life roles shift.

When adulthood is seen as a sudden, abrupt shift in roles, the term fits a discontinuous transition. This view emphasizes rapid changes in social status and responsibilities—like leaving school, gaining independence, starting a career, or becoming a parent—occurring in a relatively short period rather than gradually over time. A continuous transition, by contrast, would involve gradual, incremental changes in roles and expectations. The other options don’t describe this idea: a longitudinal perspective is about studying changes over time, and the abstemious approach relates to self-control or abstinence, not how life roles shift.