ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the leap from theory into practice as the transition to a new life stage begins. It explains retirement is a psychosocial journey, not simply a change of state. In any transition, including retirement, it becomes necessary for psychologists to learn new ways of being and to adjust to a different set of expectations and roles. The time span of adapting to retirement will also vary from person to person, with some moving seamlessly and quickly to a new identity and lifestyle while others take a more gradual route. Strong growth in women's employment over the last 50 years and women's greater representation in higher-status occupations calls for a re-examination of gender differences in adjustment to retirement. Disillusionment and disenchantment may also occur when expectations about retirement are not met, for example because illness intervenes, funds are not available for the planned activities, or the new hobby turns out to be unfulfilling.
