Abstract
Recent research and theory argue that regulation of the life course, whether by state regulation, workplace dynamics, or economic and social trends, makes the life course more institutionally-dependent and uniform in timing. This article develops a more precise conceptualization of uniformity of life course transitions, distinguishing two facets: universality in event occurrence and variability in event timing. This distinction is unclear in many discussions of the topic, and separating the two elements reveals the complexity of the relation between social structural change and uniformity. The distinction is illustrated with U.S. data on recent trends in late-life labor force exit that show an increase in the proportion of those who exit by any age (i.e., universality), but a complex pattern of change in variability, indicating a tendency toward greater individuation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
