Failure to Meet Generative Self-Expectations is Linked to Poorer Cognitive–Affective Well-Being
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-7-2018
Abstract
Objectives
Generativity, or concern with contributing to others, is theorized to be an important goal of mid-to-late life. Greater self-perceptions of generativity are associated with better well-being over time. The aim of this study is to examine how generative self-perceptions and failure to meet generative expectations over time are linked to specific cognitive–affective states (feelings of connectedness, self-worth, and positive affect), and consequently, life satisfaction.
Method
Analyses used data from Waves 2 and 3 of the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS). Multiple mediation was utilized to assess whether these cognitive–affective states linked generative failure to decreased life satisfaction. A Johnson–Neyman moderation analysis determined whether these associations vary with age.
Results
In demographically adjusted regressions, generative contributions and expectations were associated with greater perceived social connectedness, self-worth, and positive effect. Generative failure was associated with lower life satisfaction, a link that was strongest in the middle-aged and young-old and mediated by the cognitive–affective states.
Discussion
Greater feelings of generativity, and more positive expectations for future contributions, are associated cross-sectionally and over time with better affective well-being. Positive affect, social connectedness, and self-worth may partially explain why generative failure over time is linked to decreased life satisfaction.
Recommended Citation
Grossman, M. R., & Gruenewald, T. L. (2020). Failure to meet generative self-expectations is linked to poorer cognitive-affective well-being. The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 75(4), 792–801. https://doi.org/10.1093/geronb/gby069
Copyright
The authors
Comments
This article was originally published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, volume 75, issue 4, in 2020. https://doi.org/10.1093/geronb/gby069