Extending the Framework of Generativity Theory Through Research: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cultural Anthropology
• Sociology

Background:

• Generativity is a key concept in understanding psychosocial development in later life.
• Existing definitions of generativity may not fully capture the nuances of older adults' experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To expand knowledge on older adults' thoughts and representations of generativity.
• To reframe generativity by adapting the concept of "dividuality" from cultural anthropology.
• To extend definitions of generativity by identifying objects, temporal, and relational frameworks.

Main Methods:

• Utilized ethnographic interviews with 200 older women.
• Defined four foci of generativity: people, groups, things, and activities.
• Defined four spheres of generativity: historical, familial, individual, and relational.

Main Results:

• Introduced "dividuality" to describe interpersonal and intergenerational connectedness.
• Identified new objects and frameworks for generative action, including a past-oriented generativity.
• Proposed a framework to explore how the self is involved in generative action and its types within American culture.

Conclusions:

• The study offers novel ways to conceptualize generativity.
• The findings provide insights into the cultural personhood of older Americans.
• The proposed framework can guide future research on generativity in older adults.