Final answer:
Erikson's concept for adults in midlife who focus on contributing to and guiding the next generation is called Generativity. It involves nurturing and mentoring others, and it contrasts with stagnation, where individuals may feel disconnected and unproductive.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erikson's concept of adults in midlife giving to and guiding future generations is referred to as Generativity. This occurs during the stage of middle adulthood, which ranges from around the 40s to mid-60s. Generativity encompasses nurturing others, contributing to society through activities such as raising children, volunteering, or mentoring. It stands opposite to stagnation, where individuals may feel disconnected and unproductive, lacking involvement with others and self-improvement.In the context of Erikson's theory, each stage of life is associated with specific challenges and the one confronting adults in this period involves choosing generativity over stagnation. Successful navigation of this stage leads to growth and fulfillment, while failure tends to result in a feeling of stagnation.