ABSTRACT
Psychologist Eric Erikson postulated that an important marker of adult psychological maturity was the development of a sense of generativity, as opposed to being merely self-focused. By this he meant the desire to, and feeling of, making an altruistic contribution towards others, especially the next generation. Our research shows that genealogy is a way of fulfilling this drive towards generativity, in that by sharing their stories (and their expertise), family historians experience the satisfaction of knowing they are contributing to the lives of others, especially those who will succeed them. In this chapter we investigate the altruistic and generative motives that drive family history research, including helping others practically and psychologically, promoting family cohesion and relationships through contributing to an intergenerational narrative, leaving a legacy of information, stories and traditions, and acknowledging the past/honouring the ancestors. The stories that family historians share can help shape a positive family narrative that emphasises adaptive traits. This ‘kin keeper’ role, often taken on by elders such as grandparents, can help fulfil the goal of strengthening family feeling and kinship ties.
