In middle adulthood, the task is to establish and guide the next generation and reflect on one's contributions. Which stage is this?

• A. Identity vs. Role Confusion
• B. Intimacy vs. Isolation
• C. Generativity vs. Stagnation
• D. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

Answer: (C)

In Erikson’s psychosocial framework, middle adulthood centers on generativity: establishing and guiding the next generation and reflecting on one’s contributions to family, work, and society. This stage is about creating lasting impact, mentoring others, and working toward things that outlive you. When people feel they are making meaningful contributions, they experience a sense of productivity and purpose; when they don’t, they may feel stagnation or a sense of wasted opportunities.

This description fits the stage of generativity best. The other stages describe different life periods: identity vs. role confusion comes from adolescence and involves exploring who you are; intimacy vs. isolation occurs in young adulthood and focuses on forming close relationships; autonomy vs. shame and doubt appears in early childhood as a child learns independence.