Reconciling Identity Contradiction when Transitioning from Work to Retirement: A Theoretical Model

Abstract

In an aging society, dealing with the absence of an occupational identity and the quality of retirement adjustment become major concerns for individuals, organizations, and governments. However, the processes through which retirement adjustment can be achieved and upon which conditions this depends are only partially understood. We propose that identity transition contradiction and the number of high quality exchange relationships represent key factors in explaining the diversity in retirement adjustment quality. Integrating identity and social relational perspectives, we develop and elaborate ten propositions to introduce a theoretical model that addresses the process of identity contradiction reconciliation during the work-to-retirement transition. We also discuss the potential boundary conditions of the model, outline directions for future research, and suggest practical implications for management and career counseling.