Which Erikson stage corresponds to ages 25 to 65?

• A. Generativity versus Self-absorption and Stagnation
• B. Integrity versus Despair
• C. Intimacy versus Isolation
• D. Identity versus Role Confusion

Answer: (A)

In Erikson's theory, the main challenge of adulthood into midlife is generativity: the drive to contribute to the next generation and leave a lasting impact through work, parenting, mentoring, and community involvement. This stage spans roughly from the mid-20s to about 65, which fits the ages in the question. When people successfully develop generativity, they feel useful and productive; when they don’t, they may become stuck in self-absorption and stagnation, focusing mainly on their own needs. Other stages occur at different life periods: intimacy versus isolation centers on forming close relationships in young adulthood, identity versus role confusion emerges in adolescence as a person figures out who they are, and integrity versus despair appears in older age as they reflect on their life. So, the stage matching ages 25 to 65 is Generativity versus Self-absorption and Stagnation.