This paper presents a critique of both the abstract and the research on retirees' perceptions of post-retirement employment conducted and published in the following article:
Toughill, E., Mason, D.J., Beck, T.L. & Christopher, M.A. (1993). Health, income, and post-retirement employment of older adults. Public Health Nursing, 10(2), 100-107.
The abstract of this study succinctly states the study's basic rationale, its subject sample, and the research purpose. However, the abstract's report of findings is limited to a statement of the fact that results support a particular theory of aging. Since, the reader is not yet aware of what this theory is, he or she is not provided with much information by this final statement. The abstract would have been better if findings were briefly summarized and a short delineation of the basic theory provided prior to the statement concluding that the theory is supported.
One of the best features of this study is that it is clear and logical in stating the basic nature and rationale of the research. Moreover, this rationale is presented within a framework of several supportive studies.
Regarding the rationale, this can be stated as follows. When the authors found that only three retirees responded to an advertisement for light maintenance work (work to be done by older people for older people), an ad viewed by at least 120 retirees, Toughill and associates decided to survey older adults' attitudes and perceptions of post-retirement employment and so discover perceptions of factors that hinder or facilitate seniors' degree of willingness to work following their retirement.
The continuity theory of aging served as the conceptual foundation of the study. This theory postulated that the personal identity and self-concept of retirees was maintained through their continuance in lifelong patterns of behaviors.
In their explication of the theory and supportive empirical research, Tough...