Final answer:
A second reason for greater job satisfaction during midlife is generativity, which involves finding meaningful work and contributing to others' development. Work-content factors, such as job variety and clarity, also have a significant impact on job satisfaction, more so than salary levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
A second reason reported for greater job satisfaction with work in midlife, along with the enjoyment of the work itself, is generativity. This concept pertains to finding your life's work and contributing to the development of others through mentoring, volunteering, or raising children. It reflects a desire for productive involvement in society and personal growth. The literature, including Sterns and Huyck’s research in 'The Handbook of Midlife Development', supports the notion that generativity contributes to a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Additionally, research indicates that job satisfaction is most predictive of work-content factors, such as job variety, difficulty level, and role clarity, rather than extrinsic rewards like pay level. Workers who feel in control of their work, part of the decision-making processes, and integral to the outcome of their work are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. This aligns with findings from Kohn and colleagues, as well as Sunyal, Sunyal, and Yasin’s studies that link a lower vulnerability to stress, and a reduced perception of risk with higher job satisfaction.