1. GENERATIVITY VS STAGNATION (40 TO 65 YEARS OLD) : Generativity versus stagnation is the seventh of eight stages of Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development. This stage takes place during during middle adulthood.

2. CONTINUE… This seventh stage is characterized by a need to give to others. On the home front, this means raising your children. It can also mean contributing to community charities and events that better society.

3. CONTINUE… On the work front, people strive to do well and to be productive. Don’t stress if you can’t find the time to fit it all in — you may just have to wait awhile till the little people in your house are no longer quite so demanding. People who complete this stage successfully have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re needed. They feel that they’re contributing to their families and community and work place.

4. INTEGRITY VS DESPAIR (OVER 65 YEARS OLD): This is the stage of reflection. During late adulthood, when the pace of life slows down, people look back on their lives to assess what they’ve achieved. People who are proud of what they’ve done experience genuine satisfaction.

5. CONTINUE… However, people who didn’t complete the previous stages may have feelings of loss and regret. If they see their lives as unproductive, they become dissatisfied and depressed. Interestingly, this last stage, according to Erikson, is one of flux. People often alternate between feelings of satisfaction and regret. Looking back on life to get a sense of closure can help to face death without fear.