Generativity in the end of life for palliative care patients and their caregivers in Singapore : a thematic analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine how elderly terminal patients in Singapore and their caregivers define generativity. Seven patient-family caregiver dyads were recruited as part of the Family Dignity Intervention (FDI) study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and subsequently transcribed and translated for analysis. Thematic analysis based on Braun and Clarke’s (2006) approach was conducted. Six themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Familial Provision, (2) Support Formation, (3) Relationship Nurturance, (4) Character Building, (5) Wisdom Impartation, and (6) Generative Reciprocity. All themes have exhibited a strong familial element. However, wisdom impartation also includes generative behaviour towards non-family members. While Erikson’s works on generativity has some relevance in Singapore, its conceptualisation in the Western context means that there are cultural limitations when applied in a different cultural context. Although generativity is defined as “the concern in establishing and guiding the next generation” (Erikson, 1950, p. 267), generativity in Singapore, as construed by the participants, is not as unidirectional. The function of generativity is to build and nurture the family, which calls for care and guidance towards all generations, not just the younger one. This has theoretical and clinical implications when considering generativity in the Singaporean context.