ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides a range of examples theorising transition as a dynamic process involving a range of complex psychosocial processes and encompassing several elements. It discusses ‘spheres of experience’ which denotes a set of experiences, activities and feelings that are associated with particular environments. The book demonstrates that individuals sometimes needed to reconfigure or re-imagine their vision of the future in light of the transition. It explores a valuable opportunity to address the commonalities associated with transition regardless of the form it takes, the subject domain under which it is studied and the age boundaries typically associated with normative stages. The chapter also provides a range of moving personal stories around menopause that combined simultaneous feelings of loss and liberation. It looks at the historical-sociocultural element of change, highlighting examples of wider societal change across generations and how these impact on individuals’ lives.
