Generativity, Health, and Well-Being across the Adult Lifespan

Abstract

Abstract Generativity can be defined as concern and care focused on contributing to the well-being of others, particularly younger generations. It has been conceptualized and studied as a developmental desire or goal, as a form of behavior or activity, and as a state of being or goal achievement. However, it can also be examined as an antecedent to other important outcomes, including individual health and well-being. This chapter provides an overview of the ways in which generativity might shape individual health and well-being and the empirical evidence, to date, for such links.