Morgan is a 57-year-old man whose children are off at college. According to Erikson, in order to fully develop generativity in middle age, Morgan needs to:
Psychosocial Stage 7 - Generativity vs. Stagnation
During adulthood, we continue to build our lives, focusing on our career and family.
Those who are successful during this phase will feel that they are contributing to the world by being active in their home and community. Those who fail to attain this skill will feel unproductive and uninvolved in the world.
http://psychology.about.com/od/theoriesofpersonality/a/psychosocial_3.htm
To answer this question, we need to understand Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development and specifically his concept of generativity in middle age.
Erik Erikson proposed that human development occurs in stages, and each stage is characterized by a specific psychosocial task or crisis to be resolved. In middle age, Erikson identified the psychosocial task as generativity versus stagnation.
Generativity refers to the desire to give back, nurture, and contribute to the younger generations and society as a whole. It involves finding fulfillment in activities that promote and guide future generations, such as raising children, mentoring others, or contributing to the community. Generative individuals are typically concerned with leaving a positive legacy and making a meaningful difference in the world.
To fully develop generativity in middle age, Morgan could consider the following actions:
1. Expressing care and concern: Morgan can show care and concern towards his children, ensuring that they have the necessary support and guidance through their college years. Offering emotional support and being involved in their lives can foster a sense of generativity.
2. Mentorship: Morgan could consider mentoring younger individuals in his professional field or participating in community programs where he can pass on his knowledge and skills. Sharing experiences and helping others develop can contribute to a sense of generativity.
3. Volunteering and community involvement: Morgan could explore opportunities for giving back to the community, such as joining local organizations, participating in charity events, or volunteering in causes that align with his values and interests. Contributing time and effort towards making a positive impact on society can enhance generativity.
4. Reflecting on accomplishments: Morgan may benefit from reflecting on his life so far and identifying his accomplishments. Recognizing his achievements and the impact he has made can foster a sense of generativity and provide motivation for future endeavors.
5. Developing new interests and goals: Middle age can be a time for reevaluating personal goals and interests. Morgan could explore new hobbies, pursue further education, or set new personal goals that align with his desire to make a positive impact on others.
It's important to note that this answer is based on Erikson's theory and provides some general suggestions. Each individual's journey towards generativity may vary, and it's essential for Morgan to find what resonates with his own values, aspirations, and circumstances.