Relationship between care staff generativity and perceived job competence in elderly nursing homes

Abstract

Aim: According to Erikson's theory of ego development, generativity represents one task of adulthood. Generativity is defined as a concern for establishing and passing on well-being to future generations. The present study aimed to characterize the relationship between staff member generativity and perceived job competence in elderly nursing homes, and to determine the professional value of elderly care. Methods: A total of 367 care staff at 13 nursing homes for elderly people participated in the present study, the design of which was a questionnaire survey. The survey addressed topics related to generativity and perceived job competence. Path analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between generativity and perceived job competence. Results: Perceived job competence was related to age (β = 0.19, p<0.01) and occupational period (β = 0.14, p<0.05), and generativity was related to perceived job competence (β = 0.67, p<0.001). These results also suggest that perceived job competence promotes generativity development. Conclusions: The development of staff generativity in nursing homes may yield work satisfaction and elevated vocational identity. © 2011, The Japan Geriatrics Society. All rights reserved.