Passing on Talent: A Generativity Perspective on the Effects of Perceived Overqualification Among Older Employees

Drawing on generativity theory, we examine the positive effects of perceived overqualification among older employees. Specifically, we argue that perceptions of overqualification in older employees are positively associated with a core generativity motive—that is, a desire to support and guide the next generation and be needed by them. Further, we argue that generativity motive predicts prosocial attitudes and behaviors in the form of prosocial meaning of work for future generations and helping behavior. Additionally, we identify mature-age practices—that is, human resource practices tailored to address older employees’ needs—as a key contextual factor that strengthens the indirect pathway between perceptions of overqualification in older employees and their prosocial attitudes and behaviors. We test and find support for our hypotheses in two independent field studies—a three-wave field study of older employees (Study 1, N = 261) and a dyadic three-wave field study of employees of various ages and their respective supervisors (Study 2, N = 274 dyads). Theoretical and practical implications of our study are discussed.