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Predictors of retirement timing for women

Betty Anne Segars King, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Abstract

This study examined work and family influences as predictors of retirement timing for women age 35 and older. A stratified, random sample of women (n = 1,028) enrolled in a statewide women's organization was drawn using probabilities proportionate to size procedures. Three mailings were conducted, resulting in a response rate of 66%. A sub-sample of employed, married women (n = 215) was used for hypothesis testing. The data were analyzed using descriptive, factor analysis, multiple, and logistic regression statistics. Six categories of independent variables were used: (a) sociocultural factors of age, occupational status, and employment history; (b) role salience; (c) life satisfaction; (d) work role alienation; (e) financial expectations; and (f) plans for retirement. The dependent variables were: attitudes about and intentions towards retirement. Financial expectations and plans for retirement did not factor together and were excluded from hypothesis testing. Employment history, age, marriage role salience, work role alienation factors, and service sector occupational status were significant. Employment history is related to both attitude and intentions. Age and employment history were the most significant predictors of retirement intentions. Employment history was negatively related to retirement intentions and the attitude "Retirement as Avoidance." The service sector occupational status was also negatively associated with the age-one-intends-to-retire. Employment history was positively related to the attitude "Anticipated Enjoyment of Retirement." Marriage role salience was positively related to both retirement attitudes. Age and the work role alienation factor, "Work provides an active interest," were positively associated with age-one-intends-to retire. The work role alienation factor, "Work gives meaning to life," was positively associated with the attitude "Retirement as Avoidance." Work and family roles shape women's decision-making over their lifespans, especially retirement timing. The marriage role appears to be pivotal in women's retirement, yet the work role is salient. Intervention and education is needed for financial planning for retirement. The economic consequences for women affect their later quality of life and retirement opportunities.

Subject Area

Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology|Demographics|Geography|Womens studies

Recommended Citation

King, Betty Anne Segars, "Predictors of retirement timing for women" (1995). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9604420.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9604420

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