Which Erikson stage corresponds to the conflict of Generativity vs. Stagnation?

• A. Identity vs. Role Confusion
• B. Generativity vs. Stagnation
• C. Intimacy vs. Isolation
• D. Integrity vs. Despair

Answer: (B)

In Erikson's psychosocial theory, the conflict in middle adulthood is Generativity versus Stagnation. This stage centers on the drive to contribute to society and to guide the next generation—through parenting, mentoring, productive work, and community involvement. When people feel they are making a lasting contribution, they develop a sense of generativity and care for others, which gives life meaning. If this need to contribute isn’t met, they may become stagnant—feeling unproductive, stuck, or disengaged from the future. This phase sits in the middle of life, between the earlier focus on forming identity and intimate relationships and the later focus on reflecting on one’s life, which is the stage of Integrity versus Despair.