Predictor variables of adult success
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Predictors of Adult Success: A Comprehensive Analysis
Socioeconomic Factors and Adult Success
Income and Education
Income and education are significant predictors of successful aging and adult success. Higher income levels and at least 12 years of education are associated with better outcomes in later life. Specifically, individuals with income above the lowest quintile and those with higher educational attainment are more likely to age successfully, defined as maintaining independence in daily activities and physical performance. However, other studies suggest that while education is a factor, it is not as influential as other variables like mental and physical health.
Ethnicity and Health Conditions
Ethnicity and health conditions also play crucial roles. White ethnicity is associated with higher odds of successful aging, while chronic conditions such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, arthritis, and hearing problems significantly reduce the likelihood of aging successfully. These findings highlight the importance of addressing health disparities and managing chronic conditions to improve long-term outcomes.
Behavioral and Psychosocial Predictors
Physical Activity and Social Contacts
Engagement in physical activities, such as walking for exercise, and maintaining close personal contacts are strong predictors of successful aging. These behaviors contribute to better physical and mental health, which are critical components of aging well . The absence of depression is another significant factor, underscoring the importance of mental health in achieving long-term success.
Smoking Cessation
Motivational factors are key predictors of attempts to stop smoking, while cigarette dependence is the most consistent predictor of successful quit attempts. Social grade also appears to influence success, although it has been less frequently studied. These insights suggest that interventions aimed at increasing motivation and reducing dependence could be effective in promoting smoking cessation.
Cognitive and Genetic Factors
Cognitive Abilities and Mental Activities
In older adults, cognitive abilities such as episodic memory and language processing, along with engagement in cognitively stimulating activities during midlife, are significant predictors of academic success. These factors are more influential than previous education or intelligence, indicating that continuous mental engagement can promote success in later life.
Genetic Influences
Genetic factors also play a role in predicting adult success. Polygenic scores derived from genome-wide association studies have been shown to predict economic outcomes, social mobility, and various life-course behaviors. These genetic influences are mediated by psychological characteristics like intelligence, self-control, and interpersonal skills, although the effect sizes are small.
Health and Well-being
Physical and Mental Health
Physical and mental health are among the most important predictors of adult life satisfaction. Emotional health during childhood is a particularly powerful predictor, followed by conduct and, to a lesser extent, intellectual development. In adulthood, mental and physical health significantly contribute to overall well-being, while family income has a relatively minor impact.
ICU Discharge Predictors
For older adults admitted to intensive care units (ICUs), predictors of successful discharge include younger age, shorter ICU stays, lower comorbidity indices, and the absence of life-sustaining treatments. These findings suggest that comprehensive assessments and effective communication with patients and families are crucial in clinical decision-making for critically ill older adults.
Conclusion
Predictors of adult success are multifaceted, encompassing socioeconomic factors, behavioral and psychosocial elements, cognitive and genetic influences, and overall health and well-being. Addressing these diverse factors through targeted interventions and policies can enhance the likelihood of achieving long-term success and well-being in adulthood.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic