Type of Document	Dissertation
Author	Ulrich, Lorene Burns
Author's Email Address	lulrich@vt.edu
URN	etd-03262003-083517
Title	Older Workers and Bridge Employment: An Exploratory Study
Degree	PhD
Department	Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Advisory Committee	Advisor Name Title Jimmie Fortune Committee Co-Chair Tom Hohenshil Committee Co-Chair Dale Conrad Committee Member Karen Roberto Committee Member Pamelia Brott Committee Member
Keywords	bridge jobs older workers late career retirement grounded theory
Date of Defense	2003-03-20
Availability	unrestricted
Abstract Using grounded theory methodology, the purpose of the study was to examine the transition experiences of older workers who retired from their long-term careers and who were working in bridge jobs. After interviewing 24 participants, a theory emerged that describes the decision to seek a bridge job, the strategies used, the problems faced, and the benefits received. The decision to retire is connected with the decision to seek a bridge job. Participants planned but mainly focused on their finances; no participant sought help from a career counseling professional. They faced challenges such as age discrimination and problems switching to a new position. Participants reported that they live a more balanced life and enjoy their bridge job. The core theme from the study is bridge employment redefines retirement.
Files	Filename       Size       Approximate Download Time (Hours:Minutes:Seconds)     28.8 Modem   56K Modem   ISDN (64 Kb)   ISDN (128 Kb)   Higher-speed Access    ULRICHETD.pdf 610.09 Kb 00:02:49 00:01:27 00:01:16 00:00:38 00:00:03

If you have questions or technical problems, please Contact DLA.