Can Self-Enhancement Values Predict Retirement Behavior? An Analysis Combining Survey and Register Data From Norway

Abstract

This analysis investigates to what extent the self-enhancement values in the Schwartz taxonomy—achievement, power, and hedonism—can predict retirement behavior. Self-enhancement values were measured using the Norwegian Life Course, Generations and Gender Study beginning in 2007. Register data were merged with the survey data to identify those collecting a pension by the end of 2010; these persons were defined as being retired. Statistical analysis was performed using discrete time proportional odds (logistic regression) duration models for each birthday. The results show that two self-enhancement values, achievement and hedonism, discourage disability retirement but do not affect nondisability retirement. These results are largely consistent across statistical models controlling or not controlling for other known predictors of retirement behavior, including education and income, occupational group (class), and health. The hedonism effect is partially associated with the fact that individuals holding hedonistic values are in good health.

Keywords

retirement behavior human values disability

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