The Influence of Early Life Experiences on Later Life Behaviors: An Examination of the Life of Walt Disney
Date
2023
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Journal of Behavioral and Apllied Management
Abstract
In this paper we tell the story of Walt Disney, synthesizing the concepts of critical biography with those of life-span theory (LST) from sociology and psychology literature. In this manner, we can better understand how events in one’s life can have a significant impact throughout that person’s life. The paper focuses on four themes: (a) work ethic and pursuit of success, (b) perseverance – bounce back from adversity and keep moving forward, (c) alliance with others who complement one’s own strengths and offset one’s weaknesses, and (d) commitment to excellence. Through these themes, we demonstrate how early life experiences influenced Walt Disney’s behavior throughout his life. Table 1 is provided to outline the key events in the life of Walt Disney, cross-referencing the events as reported within the major Walt Disney biographies.
Description
This paper tells the story of Walt Disney, synthesizing the concepts of critical biography with those of life-span theory (LST) from sociology and psychology literature.
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Article
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Keywords
Walt Disney, Critical Biography, Life-Span Theory
Citation
Deem, Jack, David Starnes, and James Ziegler (2023). “The Influence of Early Life Experiences on Later Life Behaviors: An Examination of the Life of Walt Disney.” Journal of Behavioral and Applied Management 23 (2): 114–21.