What is a key feature of a maturational crisis?

A key feature of a maturational crisis is that it represents a developmental stage and the associated challenges that require new coping mechanisms. As individuals progress through different life stages, such as adolescence, adulthood, or aging, they encounter transitions that can lead to stress or difficulty in adaptation. These stages often demand new skills or changes in behavior that a person may not have developed yet.

In a maturational crisis, individuals might find themselves struggling with responsibilities such as becoming a parent, adjusting to retirement, or navigating other significant life transitions. This struggle often arises because their previous ways of coping are no longer sufficient to handle the new demands being placed on them during these developmentally significant changes.

In contrast, other types of crises may stem from unexpected events or external circumstances, such as a sudden job loss or unforeseen personal trauma, which do not inherently relate to the natural progression of life stages. Thus, understanding that a maturational crisis specifically involves the need to adapt and develop new coping strategies is crucial in recognizing its defining characteristics.