Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Social clocks refer to the culturally prescribed timing of major life events, such as marriage, having children, and retirement. These timelines are influenced by societal norms and expectations.
Related terms
Developmental Milestones: These are important markers of growth and development that individuals are expected to achieve at specific ages.
Normative Age-Graded Influences: These are experiences that most people go through at a similar age based on cultural norms, such as starting school or retiring.
Life Course Perspective: This is an approach that takes into account the influence of historical, social, and cultural factors on an individual's lifespan development.