title: The application of a generativity model for older adults.
abstract: Generativity is a concept first introduced by Erik Erikson as a part of his psychosocial theory which outlines eight stages of development in the human life. Generativity versus stagnation is the main developmental concern of middle adulthood; however, generativity is also recognized as an important theme in the lives of older adults. Building on the work of Erikson, McAdams and de St. Aubin (1992) developed a model explaining the generative process. The aims of this article are: (a) to explore the relationship between generativity and older adults as it appears in research literature; and (b) to examine McAdam's model and use it to explain the role of generativity in older adults who share life stories with gerontology students through an oral history project.
authors.affiliation: Center for Healthy Aging and Wellness, University of Southern Indiana, Evansville, IN 47720, USA. mehlman@usi.edu
authors.forename: Katie
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ehlman
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ligon
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D001290:Attitude; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D006040:Goals; D006803:Human Development; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009042:Motivation; D033262:Narration; D010551:Personality