You have been asked to provide an educational seminar on psychosocial changes for a group of adults who are in middle adulthood. Discuss Erikson’s generativity vs. stagnation stage, the virtue gained, and what the impact of this stage on personality can be (e.g., positive characteristics of generative adults). (USLO 8.3)
Describe 3 ways people can experience generativity in Erikson’s generativity vs. stagnation stage. How might people leave a legacy in the world if they have children? How might they leave a legacy if they don’t have children? (USLO 8.3)
Discuss 4 or more physical changes that occur in middle adulthood. What environmental factors, if any, impact these changes? (
Sample Answer
Erikson's Generativity vs. Stagnation Stage
Erikson's theory of psychosocial development identifies the stage of generativity vs. stagnation as the primary conflict of middle adulthood, typically spanning from ages 40 to 65. Generativity involves a concern for establishing and guiding the next generation and is a form of leaving a legacy. The virtue gained from successfully navigating this stage is care, defined as a broadening concern for others that extends beyond one's immediate family. A positive resolution of this stage leads to a personality characterized by a sense of purpose, productivity, and a commitment to the well-being of others. Conversely, a failure to develop a sense of generativity results in stagnation, where individuals become self-centered, self-indulgent, and disconnected from their communities. They feel a lack of purpose and may experience a sense of emptiness.
Ways to Experience Generativity
People can experience generativity in three main ways:
Parenting and Grandparenting: This is the most common way to be generative. By nurturing and guiding their children, adults contribute to the continuation of society. The values, skills, and knowledge they pass on become their legacy.
Mentoring and Teaching: Individuals can act as mentors to younger colleagues, students, or community members. By sharing their wisdom and experience, they help others succeed and develop.
Productivity and Creativity: People can leave a legacy through their work and creative contributions. This could be a scientific invention, a piece of art, a new business, or a community project. These contributions benefit society and last beyond the individual's lifetime.
If people have children, they can leave a legacy by instilling strong values, providing a loving and stable environment, and preparing them to be productive members of society. Their influence on their children's character and future achievements is their direct legacy. If they don't have children, people can leave a legacy by mentoring others, contributing to their community through volunteer work, creating or innovating in their professional field, or by being an active and positive force in the lives of their nieces, nephews, or friends' children.
Physical Changes in Middle Adulthood
Middle adulthood is accompanied by several notable physical changes, including:
Sensory Changes: Vision often declines due to presbyopia, the hardening of the lens that makes it difficult to focus on close objects. Hearing also tends to decrease, particularly for high-frequency sounds.
Musculoskeletal Changes: The density of bones and muscle mass begins to decrease. Joints may become stiffer and less flexible, and individuals may experience an increase in body fat, particularly around the torso.