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What is the third phase of life?: Exploring the "Third Act" and Late Adulthood

According to developmental psychologist Erik Erikson, the eighth and final stage of psychosocial development—late adulthood—begins at age 65 and is defined by the conflict of ego integrity versus despair. This phase is what many refer to as the “third phase of life,” a period of profound reflection, adjustment, and potential for renewed purpose following the years of childrearing and career building.