Complete Bibliography & Further Reading
The science behind successful retirement transitions
Navigate-Retirement is built on decades of rigorous research in gerontology, adult development, and retirement psychology. This page provides a comprehensive bibliography of the academic works, books, and research papers that inform the product's 7 retirement situations and 25 modules. Each source is available through Amazon with direct purchase links.
The foundational research upon which Navigate-Retirement's transition approach is built:
2009 • American Psychological Association
The seminal work that forms the backbone of Navigate-Retirement. Schlossberg, Professor Emerita at the University of Maryland and one of the world's foremost experts on adult transitions, applies her 4S Transition Model specifically to retirement. She demonstrates that retirement is not an event but a process requiring active management of Situation, Self, Support, and Strategies.
Essential texts from leading researchers in retirement and aging:
2007 • PublicAffairs
Freedman, founder of Encore.org, redefines what the "second half of life" can look like. He demonstrates how millions are finding purpose through meaningful work and contribution after traditional careers end.
2009 • Visions International Publishing
An international bestseller focusing on the non-financial aspects of retirement. Zelinski addresses purpose, leisure, creativity, and fulfillment—the psychological dimensions often overlooked in retirement planning.
2015 • Berrett-Koehler Publishers
Leider, a pioneer in the purpose movement, demonstrates the scientific connection between purpose and longevity. His research shows that purposeful living adds years to life and life to years.
2020 • Wiley
Based on decades of research, Dychtwald and Morison reveal what today's retirees actually want—and it's not just golf and relaxation. They explore the full spectrum of retirement aspirations and challenges.
Research on navigating major life transitions:
2019 (40th Anniversary Edition) • Da Capo Lifelong Books
The classic work on life transitions, distinguishing between external change and internal transition. Bridges' three-phase model (Endings, Neutral Zone, New Beginnings) applies powerfully to retirement.
2012 • Berrett-Koehler Publishers
A practical guide to life redesign, helping readers reassess what they're "carrying" and make intentional choices about the life they want to live.
2016 • Knopf
Stanford's famous Life Design course in book form. While written for all ages, its prototyping approach to life design is especially valuable for retirees creating new chapters.
Research on navigating relationship changes in retirement:
2002 • Harmony
Gottman's research-backed approach to emotional connection, essential for couples navigating the changes retirement brings to daily life and relationship dynamics.
2004 • Sphinx Publishing
Practical guidance for couples navigating retirement together, addressing the unique challenges when both partners are home more and roles need renegotiation.
Research on maintaining and improving health in later life:
2020 • Dutton
Neuroscientist Levitin explores what successful aging looks like from a brain science perspective, offering evidence-based strategies for maintaining cognitive health and vitality.
2012 • National Geographic
Research on the world's longest-lived communities reveals that purpose, social connection, and daily movement—not just genetics—drive longevity.
Peer-reviewed research underlying Navigate-Retirement's evidence-based approach:
Schlossberg, N. K. (1981). The Counseling Psychologist, 9(2), 2-18.
The foundational paper introducing the 4S Transition Model—Situation, Self, Support, Strategies—that informs all of Navigate-Retirement's structure.
Atchley, R. C. (1976). In H. S. Parnes (Ed.), Work and Retirement.
Classic research on retirement phases (honeymoon, disenchantment, reorientation, stability) that informs Situation 2 (First Year) modules.
Wang, M. (2007). Work, Aging and Retirement, 1(1), 71-97.
Comprehensive meta-analysis identifying predictors of successful retirement adjustment, including psychological preparation and social support.
Moen, P., Kim, J. E., & Hofmeister, H. (2001). Social Psychology Quarterly, 64(1), 55-71.
Research on how couples navigate retirement together, supporting Situation 5 (Relationship Changes) modules.
Steger, M. F., Frazier, P., Oishi, S., & Kaler, M. (2006). Journal of Counseling Psychology, 53(1), 80-93.
Foundational research on meaning and purpose, supporting Situation 3 (Finding Purpose) modules.
Hershey, D. A., Jacobs-Lawson, J. M., McArdle, J. J., & Hamagami, F. (2007). Journal of Financial Counseling and Planning, 18(1).
Research on psychological aspects of retirement finances, informing Situation 6 (Financial Concerns).
Adams, K. B., Leibbrandt, S., & Moon, H. (2011). Research on Aging, 33(4), 393-418.
Evidence linking social engagement to retirement satisfaction, supporting Situation 7 (Staying Engaged).
Google Scholar is a free academic search engine that indexes peer-reviewed papers, theses, books, and conference proceedings from universities and research institutions worldwide.
Unlike regular Google, Scholar focuses exclusively on academic and scholarly sources—the original research that books like those above are based on.
Use Google Scholar when you want to:
Note: Some papers require institutional access or purchase, but many are freely available as PDFs.
Transform retirement research into daily inspiration with Navigate-Retirement's 25 modules and 2,500+ curated quotes.