In Erikson's theory, what is the primary conflict faced during middle adulthood?

In Erikson's psychosocial development theory, the primary conflict faced during middle adulthood is generativity versus stagnation. This stage typically occurs between the ages of approximately 40 and 65 years. During this period, individuals strive to contribute meaningfully to society, often through parenting, work, community involvement, or creative endeavors.

Generativity refers to the desire to create and nurture things that will outlast oneself, such as raising children or contributing to the wellbeing of future generations. Individuals who successfully navigate this stage feel a sense of accomplishment, purpose, and fulfillment from their contributions and relationships. On the other hand, stagnation occurs when individuals fail to find a way to contribute, leading to feelings of unproductiveness, self-absorption, and disconnection from the broader community.

The other stages mentioned in the options occur at different life stages: identity versus role confusion is associated with adolescence; integrity versus despair is relevant in late adulthood; and trust versus mistrust occurs in infancy. Each of these conflicts is significant in its own right, but they do not pertain to the developmental tasks of middle adulthood like generativity versus stagnation does.