• Hutchison, E. D. (2019). Dimensions of human behavior: The changing life course (6th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
o Chapter 8, "Middle Adulthood" (pp. 269-311)
• Mitchell, V. (2009). Who am I now? Using life span theories in psychotherapy in late adulthoodLinks to an external site.. Women & Therapy, 32(2), 298–312.
• Walden University, LLC. (Producer). (2018). Southside Community ServicesLinks to an external site. [Web site]. Baltimore, MD: Author. Retrieved from http://studyhall.waldenu.edu/bsw/
This is the web site for Southside Community Services, the fictional agency featured in the BSW video case studies. Here you can explore more details about the case studies, find sample job listings, or explore other aspects of social work.
Post the following:
• Explain the role of generativity in middle adulthood.
• Describe two developmental gains and losses that occur in middle adulthood.
Respond to two colleagues:
• Identify one resource each colleague might use when working with a client in middle adulthood who is experiencing loss.
RESPONSE1
Erik Erickson’s life span theory states that middle adulthood is the stage of generativity versus stagnation. “Generativity is the ability to transcend personal interests to provide care and concern for younger and older generations; it encompasses “procreation, productivity, and creativity, and thus the generation of new beings, as well as of new products and new ideas, including a kind of self-generation concerned with further identity development” (Hutchison, 2018, pg. 275). Typically, adults who are in middle adulthood have obtained and settled into careers, got married and have had children, and some even take on the role of caretaker for their elder parents. “Many physical and cognitive functions are on a downward path and the multiple roles of middle adulthood may create stress, but midlife is also a peak time for many in terms of occupational status, family leadership, sense of mastery, and self-esteem” (Hutchison, 2018, pg. 278). Middle adulthood is when individuals see a change in physical appearance, decline in their reproductive system, mobility, and begin to see onset chronic disease. “The changes are the result of interactions of biology with psychological, sociocultural, and spiritual factors, and individuals play a very active role in the aging process throughout adulthood” (Hutchison, 2018, pg. 278). Adults who do not feel a sense of accomplishment or contribution to their future generations or society are left with feelings of stagnation.
Hutchison, E. D. (2018). Dimensions of Human Behavior (6th ed.). SAGE Publications, Inc. (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781544339337
RESPONSE2
The role of generativity in middle adulthood is one of stewardship and involvement in the next generation. Generativity is concerned with actively caring for and shaping the next generation in a responsible, cooperative, and creative way, both at the social and individual levels. This often includes mentoring and teaching younger generations, caring about the community, and developing meaningful relationships with individuals of all ages. Generativity is the life task for individuals in middle adulthood, with the goal being to extend their influence beyond themselves, thereby creating a legacy for the future.
Two developmental gains that occur in the middle adulthood stage include a sense of accomplishment and clarity of purpose. As individuals reach their peak of performance in their jobs and relationships, they may derive a sense of satisfaction from their accomplishments, while also recognizing the importance of considering the future. Additionally, individuals in middle adulthood often reflect on their prior experiences and gain a newfound sense of purpose in their lives.
Two developmental losses that can occur in middle adulthood are physical limitations and losses of loved ones. During this stage, cognition, motor skills, and physical abilities tend to decline as age-related decline begins to occur. As well, due to the increasing age disparity between generations, individuals in middle adulthood may experience or begin to anticipate losses of loved ones such as friends, family members, and peers.
Sample Solution