Working Class Women and Retirement

Abstract

This study explored retirement and the work life experiences of working-class women. Ninety-nine black and Caucasian women ranging in age from 66 to 84 were administered a telephone questionnaire assessing why they retired, and why they returned to work after retirement. Most compelling among the findings from this research were low earnings status and its lasting effects on psychological, physical, social, and economic well-being during retirement. Furthermore, occupations segregated by sex were associated with discrimination and low pay. A work life spent in sex segregated jobs, along with discrimination, left most of the working-class women with an economically insecure retirement. This resulted in women returning to the work force after retirement to supplement their income.