Generativity–Stagnation: Development of a Status Model

Abstract

Erikson's seminal writings on lifespan development describe specific psychosocial developmental tasks to be accomplished in adulthood, embodied in the construct of generativity–stagnation. The primary challenge of this seventh stage of Erikson's theory is to establish and guide the next generation through one's acts of care. Theoretical and empirical developments of Erikson's construct are reviewed. A new, five-category model that describes styles of resolving the issues of this stage is proposed using combinations of (a) an individual's level of involvement, or active concern for the growth of the self and others, and (b) an individual's level of inclusivity, or scope of caregiving concern. The new model is discussed in the context of theoretical and empirical investigations into generativity.