Exploring the Relationship Between Subjective Age Perception and Psychological Maturity: Cluster Analysis Using Machine Learning

This study explores the complex relationship between psychological maturity and subjective age perception through analyses using uniform manifold approximation and projection and machine learning. A survey involving 3,000 adults revealed a general tendency for subjective age to be perceived as younger than the actual age. Participants were categorized into six clusters based on psychological characteristics and the gap between subjective and actual ages. Based on cluster analysis, psychologically mature groups exhibited high ego resilience, adaptability, self-awareness, and autonomy, aligning with traits of successful aging. Cluster 2 participants perceived themselves as younger due to positive psychological traits associated with increased longevity and improved health outcomes. Conversely, Cluster 6 participants exhibited low psychological maturity and high depressive symptoms, recognizing their subjective age as older. Subjective age and psychological maturity significantly impact the trajectory of successful aging. The current psychological maturity classification model provides a new framework to enhance strategies for successful aging.