The psychological effects of retirement on life satisfaction and adjustment

Helen C. Harton

I. The importance of studying retirement

II. Adjustment theories

A. Activity theory

B. Disengagement theory

C. Continuity theory

D. Combined theories

1. Activity within engagement

2. Compromise/negotiation theory

E. Functional theory

III. Reasons for retirement

A. Involuntary retirement

B. Gender differences

C. Atchley’s eight stages of retirement

IV. Adjustment to retirement

V. Correlates of life satisfaction

A. Gender differences

B. Institution of leisure

VI. Advantages and disadvantages of retirement

VII. Conclusions