Retirement : changes in individual difference variables

The purpose of this study was to examine the possible relationships between individual difference variables and retirement satisfaction. Sixty-six retirees participated in this present field study. These participants were asked to complete a questionnaire which measured work involvement. Type A behavior, locus of control, and retirement satisfaction. Pre- and postretirement measures were assessed using a "Then/Now" method in order to examine any within-person change. As hypothesized, the results of this study found there to be a strong positive relationship between locus of control (both the "Then" and the "Now" measures) and retirement satisfaction. Also concurring with the hypotheses proposed in this study was the finding of negative, although not significant, relationships between the "Now" measure of work involvement and retirement satisfaction, and the "Now" measure of Type A behavior and retirement satisfaction. However, no evidence was found for inverse relationships between the "Then" measures of work involvement and Type A behavior and retirement satisfaction. Finally, retirement satisfaction was found to be predictable by using work involvement. Type A behavior, and locus of control "Now" scores with the "Then" scores partialled out. The amount of time spent in leisure activities was discovered to be a moderator variable. The practical and theoretical implications of these results are discussed, as well as the limitations of the study. Recommendations for future research follow.