Change and Stability in Self during the Transition to Retirement: An Intraindividual Study using P-technique Factor Analysis

Abstract

This study determined the extent to which there was intraindividual change and stability in the self during the retirement transition, and examined the extent to which dimensions of variability were replicable across older adults. This study employed a single-subject design with multiple replications in order to examine interindividual similarities and differences in intraindividual change patterns. Data were collected from four people daily, beginning approximately one month prior to the retirement event and continuing until three months after the event. For each individual P-technique factor analyses showed three to four dimensions of variability. Stability in the self was also manifested, although there were large individual differences in the amount of stability exhibited. Although similar factors could be identified across individuals, the factors did not appear to be identical. The discussion focuses on the nature of change and stability in self when conceptualised and measured from an intraindividual perspective.