Erik Erikson, psychologist, developed a theory called Generativity. The theory basically has the premise that society must have a necessary transmission of life experiences from elders to younger generations. It is required in adulthood to prevent stagnation.
St. Ann Center believes strongly in bringing the generations together on a consistent basis. The children can learn from frail elders and individuals that are coping with disabilities to break down stereotypes, give children a broader sense of the world, have a greater appreciation for all forms of life and to feel needed and useful. The adults gain a greater opportunity to be influential in teaching children in their early years and to feel needed and useful. Hmmm, feeling needed and useful, that is a universal need that we all have as human beings.
This theory makes perfect sense, but in this fast-paced, drive-thru society how can we make this happen? We don't all have built in opportunities to bring adults and children together. This may require some thinking outside the box. Look to your community, does your community have a senior center and a child care center or school. How can they come together for a regular type of opportunity? Is there something within your church that can bring elders and the young together for a sharing opportunity. Do you have a scout group or another community group where you can champion intergenerational opportunities within your community?
We need more from society than to live in gated, vacuum communities. We need to be able to share and transmit to the next generation for life to really continue and be vital.
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