Final answer:
Whitbourne's claim suggests that older adults are more likely to use identity assimilation to maintain a consistent self-view, while emerging adults are more likely to engage in identity accommodation as they explore new roles and identities. Option 'c' correctly reflects these concepts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identity assimilation and identity accommodation are concepts related to how individuals integrate experiences and information into their self-concept. Assimilation involves integrating experiences by relating them to what is already known, without changing one's existing identity framework. Accommodation, on the other hand, requires altering one's identity framework to incorporate new experiences. In the context of human development, research suggests that identity assimilation tends to be higher in older adulthood, where individuals may seek to maintain a consistent self-view. Conversely, identity accommodation is generally higher in emerging adulthood, a period characterized by changes and exploration of new roles and identities. This mirrors the process of assimilation and accommodation in the broader sociological context; marginalized or minority groups may assimilate by adopting the dominant culture, whereas pluralistic society allows multiple identities to coexist, highlighting the role of accommodation. Hence, the correct answer to Whitbourne's claim about identity processes in different stages of adulthood would be 'c. identity assimilation is higher in older adulthood; identity accommodation is higher in emerging adulthood.'