Images of retirement in the discourse of workers about to retire: some aids for vocational guidance

Abstract

This study investigates images and expectations in the discourse of middle class workers about to retire concerning their future. It intends to identify some points to be considered in retirement vocational guidance programs. A qualitative methodology was used based on the discourse analysis, and the strategy consisted on semi-structured interviews specially developed for this research. The main recurrences had been: the continuous relation between retirement and work; the identity bound to labor; the work as a main time organizer and concerns about further economical conditions. Considering the increase time life expectation, the need of a continuous working life in order to maintain a financial independence and social recognition, it is concluded that vocational guidance before retirement is important, mainly, in respect to constructing future choices and life projects, and shaping images about the retired condition, attending the relation between identity and work.