Adjustment to and Satisfaction With Retirement

Research over the past 30 years concerning the effect of retirement on personal adjustment has resulted in conflicting findings. Some studies reported a negative effect for retirement; others showed no effect at all. This study utilized the National Longitudinal Surveys of Mature Men to test the net effect of retirement on happiness with life and to analyze an evaluation of retirement item in order to discern specific factors that cause lower satisfaction with retirement. Logistic multiple regression and ordinary least squares regression were used in the analysis. The main findings are as follows: (a) although a negative bivariate relationship exists between retirement and happiness with life, retirement has no significant net effect; (b) health factors, recent widowhood, and income have the greatest impact on happiness with life; and (c) poor health, lower income, and earlier-than-expected retirement are the main determinants of negative evaluations of retirement.