ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on how to meet the challenges of life and achieve optimal health and well-being. It utilizes a social psychological evolutionary perspective as a valuable tool in interpreting research from various stages of human development and adaptation. The book discusses a key adaptation involves the successful search for meaning and purpose in life. It also discusses the relationship of gender to human happiness. The book examines all stages of human development require adaptation and that is also true for midlife. It explores an integrated identity and a healthy self-concept is keys to adaptation and successful living. The book describes the major issues of human adaptation are related to well-being. It concludes with an examination of hostility toward women as expressed in sexual harassment, pornography and rape.
