Final answer:
Erikson proposed that middle-aged adults encounter the challenge of generativity versus stagnation, where they must find their life's work and connect with others or risk stagnation. In late adulthood, the issue is integrity versus despair, with individuals reflecting on their life's accomplishments or facing regrets.
Step-by-step explanation:
Erikson proposed that middle-aged adults face the significant challenge of generativity versus stagnation. During middle adulthood, which stretches from one's 40s to the mid-60s, individuals aim to find their life's work and contribute to the development of others. This can be through various means such as volunteering, mentoring, and parenting. Mastering this phase leads to generativity, wherein an individual feels they have contributed to society and the well-being of younger generations. Failure to achieve this results in stagnation, characterized by a lack of productivity and self-improvement, and weak connections with others.
In late adulthood, the challenge shifts to integrity versus despair. This final stage of life involves reflecting on one's past and either achieving a sense of satisfaction and integrity or experiencing regret and despair. Those who find satisfaction in their achievements embrace integrity, whereas those who focus on their unfulfilled wishes or perceived failures may face despair.