Erikson's stage of Generativity vs. Stagnation

Question

Describe in full Erikson's stage of Generativity vs. Stagnation. What is the major conflict here? How does one achieve generativity? What are the consequences of stagnation?

Answer 1

Generativity v Stagnation occurs alongside what we like to call the "mid-life crisis" and people go through it around the ages of 40-65. Generativity refers to "making your mark" on the world. Main concerns amidst this stage are career and productivity. Failure to make contributions to society results in stagnation. One achieves generativity by helping their kids, saving the environment, etc. The consequences of stagnation could be rejection or even cynicism.