Final answer:
The correct answer to the student's question is 'Identity achievement,' which is when an individual has explored and made a commitment to an identity. Erik Erikson's theory posits that older adults struggle with overcoming despair to achieve integrity, and Mary is likely to experience role conflict due to her situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Having a personal investment in a specific role, value, goal, or ideology describes identity achievement, which is one of the components of Marcia's theory of identity. It represents the stage where an individual has gone through a period of exploration and has made a commitment to a particular identity. This is in contrast to identity diffusion (lack of commitment and exploration), identity foreclosure (commitment without exploration), and identity moratorium (exploration without commitment).
Regarding Erik Erikson's developmental stages of life, the challenge with which older people must struggle is overcoming despair to achieve integrity. This reflects on their ability to look back on their lives with a sense of satisfaction rather than regret or despair.
In situations of social stress like the case presented for Mary, she is likely to experience role conflict as she tries to balance multiple responsibilities that demand her time and attention.
Supporting the actions of a political party because of self-identity with that group is an example of partisanship.
The concept that people move to places that are compatible with their personalities and needs is known as selective migration.
Occupational prestige highlights that jobs are not equally valued within society.