This session will focus on separation from one's primary paid employment, both via job loss and via retirement. For job loss, consideration will be given to selection factors, anticipatory phase, reemployment, and the impact of unemployment on both physical and mental health. Topics relevant to retirement include timing, voluntary nature of retirement, associated stressors, the social status of retired persons, and post retirement mental and physical health. In both areas, cross-cultural studies will be emphasized.

Lead Instructor: Judith Siegel

Readings:

Calasanti, T. Gender and life satisfaction in retirement: An assessment of the male model. Journal of Gerontology: Social Sciences. 1996; 51B: S18-S29.

Dooley, D., Prause, J., Ham?Rowbottom, K. A. Underemployment and depression: Longitudinal relationships. Journal of Health and Social Behavior. 2000; 41: 421-436.

Reitzes, DC, Mutran, EJ, Fernandez, ME Does retirement hurt well-being? Factors influencing self-esteem and depression among retirees and workers. The Gerontologist 1996; 36: 649-656.

Turner, J. B. Economic context and the health effects of unemployment. Journal of Health and Social Behavior. 1995; 36: 213-229.