Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee Generativity vs. stagnation is the seventh stage of Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. This stage takes place during middle adulthood, between the approximate ages of 40 and 65. It comes before the eighth and final stage of development in Erikson's theory, which is integrity vs. despair. During this stage, middle-aged adults strive to create or nurture things that will outlast them, often by parenting children or fostering positive changes that benefit others. Contributing to society and doing things to promote future generations are important needs at the generativity vs. stagnation stage of development. It's important to note that life events at this stage tend to be less age-specific than they are during early- and late-stage life. The major events that contribute to this stage (such as
marriage, work, and child-rearing) can occur at any point during the broad span of middle adulthood. What to Know
What Are Generativity and Stagnation?To understand this stage of middle adulthood development, it's helpful to know what the terms generativity and stagnation mean. GenerativityGenerativity refers to "making your mark" on the world by caring for others, as well as through creating and accomplishing things that make the world a better place. Key characteristics of generativity include:
These sorts of actions are frequently realized through having and raising children. Those who are successful during this phase feel that they are contributing to the world by being active in their home and community. StagnationStagnation refers to the failure to find a way to contribute. Stagnant individuals may feel disconnected or uninvolved with their community or with society as a whole. Some characteristics of stagnation include:
Those who fail to attain the generativity skill feel unproductive in and uninvolved with the world. Press Play for Advice On Healthy AgingHosted by Editor-in-Chief and therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, featuring actress, model, and bestselling author Brooke Shields, shares how to embrace getting older with a positive mindset. Click below to listen now.
Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts Benefits of GenerativityWhen adults developing a sense of generativity, they benefit from a number of important advantages. Better HealthResearch suggests that generativity can provide a greater motivation to initiate and maintain healthy behaviors. People who feel that they have the power to make a difference may be more likely to pursue health-promoting activities because they believe that such actions can be meaningful. More Positive RelationshipsFor many adults, parenting plays a key role in the development of a sense of generativity, but it is not the only path. Erikson himself suggested that participating in the lives of others (whether they are one's children, friends, or others) is an important way to gain a sense of making a contribution and difference in the world. Greater ProductivityThe actions required to develop a sense of generativity involve taking an active, participatory role in the world. Generative people are productive in a variety of ways, including teaching, mentoring, and volunteering—both in their personal lives as well as at work. Greater FulfillmentBecause generativity is focused on making contributions, people who are able to develop this skill are also more likely to experience a greater sense of satisfaction with themselves and with life in general. They are able to look at their life, family, and work and feel that they have lived a life of consequence and joy. Increased Community InvolvementDuring the early part of adulthood, parenting and family tend to be the dominant factors contributing to the development of generativity. But research has also found that giving assistance to others, often in the form of civic engagement, plays a role in generativity as people age. What Contributes to Generativity?There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of either generativity or stagnation during middle age. Here are a few to consider. Pride in Work and FamilyThis aspect of the generativity vs. stagnation stage is centered on the sense of pride that adults take in their families and children. In many ways, it mirrors the autonomy vs. shame and doubt stage of early childhood. Pride can occur through parenting, although not all people who produce offspring become supportive and giving parents. Plus, those who do not have children are still able to give to the next generation in meaningful ways. Feeling IncludedFeeling part of something, whether it is a family unit or a larger group or community, is essential for the development of generativity. This centers on the scope of caregiving activities and on what and who an individual is willing to include in their life. Research indicates that participating in social organizations can assist with developing generativity by providing feelings of inclusion. This reflects the trust vs. mistrust stage of early childhood. Taking ResponsibilityAs people go through adulthood, they must choose whether to take responsibility for their lives and choices. This reflects the initiative vs. guilt stage seen earlier during childhood. People who take responsibility are more likely to feel empowered and in control of their lives and destiny. This helps lead to a sense of making a contribution to the world. Feeling ProductiveWork plays a major role in adulthood, so it's no surprise that an individual’s sense of pride and accomplishment in their work can lead to feelings of productivity. This stage mirrors the industry vs. inferiority stage of childhood. Making Contributions As the generativity stage draws to a close and people approach the final stage of life, finding meaning plays an increasingly critical role. People reach a point where they are beginning to reflect back on their lives and accomplishments, making it important to feel that these achievements have left a lasting mark on the
world. Consequences of StagnationWhen people fail to achieve generativity, they instead develop a sense of stagnation. Such feelings can have an impact on how people manage the later years of their lives. Some of the potential outcomes linked to stagnation include:
It is at this point in life that some people might experience what is often referred to as a "midlife crisis." They may reflect back on their accomplishments, consider their future trajectory, and regret missed opportunities such as going to school, pursuing a certain career, or having children. It is important to note that it is the way that people interpret these regrets that influence their well-being. Those who feel that they have made mistakes, wasted their time, and have no time to make changes may be left feeling bitter. Others might use this crisis as an opportunity to make adjustments in their lives that will lead to greater fulfillment. How to Improve GenerativityThere are many ways to improve feelings of generativity vs, feelings of stagnation during middle adulthood. You can:
People who have positive relationships with others, good quality health, and a sense of control over their lives often feel more productive and satisfied. How to Decrease StagnationThose who suffer from poor health, poor relationships, and feel that they have no control over their fate are more likely to experience feelings of stagnation. If you are feeling this way, there are things that you can do to feel more productive and involved.
Finding ways to combat stagnation can help you stay more active, engaged, and satisfied with your life as you age. A Word From VerywellThe generativity vs. stagnation stage of psychosocial development is when we start to question, "How can I contribute to the world?" Finding ways to advance or enhance future generations can help you work toward generativity instead of having a sense of stagnation. If you want more fulfillment in your life, getting involved in your community, learning new skills, or starting a new hobby are all ways to achieve this goal. Taking actions such as these can help improve your well-being later in life. Frequently Asked Questions
How did Erikson define generativity?According to Erikson (1982) generativity encompasses procreativity, productivity, and creativity. This stage includes the generation of new beings, new products, and new ideas, as well as self-generation concerned with further identity development.
When Erikson said that midlife adults have to resolve the conflict of generativity versus stagnation he meant that people must?When Erikson said that midlife adults have to resolve the conflict of generativity vs. stagnation, he meant that people need to: believe they are enriching the lives of others or feel purposeless.
What is an example of stagnation?War and famine, for example, can be external factors that cause stagnation. A sudden increase in oil prices or fall in demand for a key export could also induce a period of stagnation for an economy.
What is Erikson's primary developmental conflict of early adulthood?Intimacy versus isolation is the sixth stage of Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development. This stage takes place during young adulthood between the ages of approximately 18 to 40 yrs. During this stage, the major conflict centers on forming intimate, loving relationships with other people.
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