Subjective perception of the life-course in old age and in youth

Abstract

The aim of the article is to present the results of the perceived age norms of the lifecourse. Several such studies were described in literature. The research project of Perrig-Chiello and Perren (2005) inspired the author to replicate some of the used measures in a differ­ent cultural context. Polish women from early and late adulthood were interviewed on timing biographical transitions and well-being. Tested hypothesis claimed that timing is related to age. The second hypothesis assumed connection between well-being and age. The comparison of the results of senior women and young women proved different timing of 11 biographical transitions. However their subjective perception and evaluation of life-course was comparable. There were only 5 significant differences in emotional valence of transitions: end of school education, being single, birth of second child, grandparenthood, and retirement given by senior and young women. The achieved results proved the moderately positive life satisfaction both of senior women and young women.