A Sample of Professional and Managerial Women:

Abstract

Prior to the mid-1970's there was little literature on the experiences of women in retirement. Although presently social scientists have begun research, there are still gaps in the literature, most notably regarding work and retirement experiences of women in senior professional and managerial positions. While the previously small numbers of these women may partly explain the absence of social science research on them, their more recently growing numbers make them a timely topic of investigation. Recognizing the inherent problems in sampling such a group, we designed this exploratory study using a purposive sample, with the aim of examining the major issues and influences in the work and retirement lives of an historically unique cohort of women. Open-ended interviews with 25 professional and managerial retirees from 52 to 86 years of age yield a profile rich in detail about how these women entered the world of work, stayed and prospered in it, and, finally, retired without regrets to enjoy another life phase. Their descriptions of their own lives makes it clear that their involvement in pursuits that nurture and help others, and their relationships in extensive networks with other women are the keys to their present life satisfaction.