Generativity's manifestation in young adults: a grounded theory study

Abstract

PurposeApplying traditional grounded theory techniques, the present research reanalyzed secondary data from four previously conducted studies to explore how generativity is manifested in young adults.Design/methodology/approachA new conceptual model of generativity was developed to depict how generativity manifests among this age group.FindingsThis study's findings provide leadership educators with a refined approach to interacting with this construct while simultaneously increasing young adults’ potential ability to experience the benefits available to them through generativity at an earlier stage in their lives.Originality/valueThis study advances the field of leadership education by establishing foundational insight into the uniqueness of generativity’s development in young adulthood.