ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Midlife Crisis Age Shifts to Late 40s, According to Recent Studies

opinion-review · 2026-03-25

A cultural analysis discusses the shifting timeline of midlife crises, now occurring around age 47.2, based on a 2020 study across 132 countries. The article references psychologist Daniel Levinson's 1978 definition of the 'midlife crisis' and notes its relevance to both men and women, influenced by factors like perimenopause. It mentions cultural examples, including the film 'This Is 40' by Judd Apatow and Miranda July's novel 'All Fours', to illustrate contemporary reflections on aging and personal reevaluation. The piece, written by Rodrigo Terrassa and Aloma Rodríguez, explores how delayed life milestones correlate with this trend.

Key facts

  • Midlife crisis now peaks at 47.2 years old, per a 2020 global study
  • Psychologist Daniel Levinson defined the 'midlife crisis' in 1978
  • The phenomenon affects both genders, with women influenced by perimenopause
  • Cultural references include Judd Apatow's film and Miranda July's novel
  • Delayed life milestones contribute to the shift in crisis timing

Entities

Artists

Sources