Final Answer:
According to research, individuals who score high on a measure of psychological mindedness, which is a concept developed by Erik Erikson, tend to have less fear of death. This finding supports Erikson's theory that the development of psychological mindedness, or the ability to understand and accept one's own thoughts and feelings, can lead to a decrease in fear of death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erikson's theory of psychosocial development posits that individuals progress through a series of stages, each characterized by a distinct conflict or challenge. The final stage of development, which occurs in late adulthood, is the stage of integrity vs. despair. At this stage, individuals reflect on their lives and experiences, and they either feel a sense of integrity and accomplishment or despair and regret.
Research has found that individuals who score high on a measure of psychological mindedness, such as the Psychological Mindedness Scale (PMS), tend to have a more positive outlook on life and death. They are more likely to have a sense of meaning and purpose, and they are less likely to experience fear of death. This is because psychological mindedness allows individuals to better understand and accept their own thoughts and feelings, which can lead to a greater sense of control and well-being.
In a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that individuals who scored high on the PMS were less likely to fear death than those who scored low on the scale. This finding held true even when controlling for other factors that might influence fear of death, such as religious beliefs and socioeconomic status.
Overall, the research suggests that the development of psychological mindedness, as described by Erik Erikson, can lead to a decrease in fear of death. This is because psychological mindedness allows individuals to better understand and accept their own thoughts and feelings, which can lead to a greater sense of control and well-being."