Atchley's six phases
Robert Atchley framed retirement as a process: pre-retirement, honeymoon (newfound freedom), disenchantment (letdown or depression), reorientation (finding realistic alternatives), stability (a satisfying routine), and termination (losing the retiree role, often to illness). Not everyone moves through every phase in order.
How people adjust
Role theory says losing the work role can trigger an identity crisis. Continuity theory predicts smoother adjustment when people keep their habits and relationships, while activity theory stresses new roles. Research by Wang and Shi highlights health, finances, marital quality, and whether retirement was voluntary. See also theories of aging.
FAQ
- Does everyone go through disenchantment?
- No—well-prepared or voluntary retirees may skip it.
- What best predicts a good retirement?
- Health, financial security, social ties, and retiring by choice.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- Atchley, R. C. (1976). The Sociology of Retirement. Cambridge, MA: Schenkman.
- Wang, M., & Shi, J. (2014). Psychological research on retirement. Annual Review of Psychology, 65, 209–233.
- Cumming, E., & Henry, W. E. (1961). Growing Old: The Process of Disengagement. Basic Books.