Final answer:
Erikson's theory of integrity versus despair involves older adults reflecting on their life and feeling either a sense of satisfaction or a sense of failure. Achieving integrity means accepting life's outcomes and can lead to fulfillment, while falling into despair can result in regret and depression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erikson's Theory of Old Age: Integrity vs Despair
The theory that describes the period of late adulthood where individuals reflect on their past and conclude that their life has been either fulfilling or not well spent is known as integrity versus despair. This is one of the stages in Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Stages of Development. When seniors go through this stage successfully, they achieve a sense of integrity, taking pride in their accomplishments and accepting the course of their life. However, those who look back with regret may experience despair, feeling that their life lacked meaning and purpose. The outcome of this stage is significant because it can lead to a concluding life review that results in either a sense of contentment or a sense of remorse.