Question

Micah, age 55, used to write great opinion pieces for his newspaper. Now he chooses the topic and lays out the main theme, but he assigns the actual copywriting to a younger staff reporter. He then proofs the work, makes a few changes, and lets it go to print under his by-line. Baltes & Baltes would suggest that Micah is using which strategy?

Answer 1

Micah seems to be using selective optimization with compensation (SOC), a strategy from the theory of successful aging, where he focuses on his strengths, optimizes his resources, and compensates for declines by delegating writing tasks while still overseeing the final product.

Step-by-step explanation:

Baltes & Baltes would likely suggest that Micah is using a strategy known as selective optimization with compensation (SOC). This concept originates from the theory of successful aging, which posits that individuals may cope with the effects of aging by focusing on their strengths, optimizing their resources, and compensating for losses. Micah, in choosing the topic and laying out the main theme, is optimizing his expertise while compensating for potential declines in his writing ability by delegating the actual copywriting to a younger reporter. He continues to maintain his professional standard and personal touch by proofreading and making changes before the pieces go to print.