Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

4-25-2025

Keywords

career transitions, divorce, immigration, marriage, role transition, social structure

Disciplines

Developmental Psychology

Abstract

A role can be defined as one’s position in a relationship or social structure, whereas a role identity consists of the behavioral expectations that are included in that role. While some individuals may view their roles through a fixed set of social standards, others rely on their own subjective perceptions and interpretations of these positions through flexible guidelines.  Through the process of a role transition, the literature identifies two types defined as a macro role transition or micro role transition.  A macro role transition consists of a psychological or physical change between consecutively held roles.  Examples can include career transitions, marriage/divorce, parenthood, immigration, or retirement.  A micro role transition is also considered a psychological or physical change, yet between simultaneously held roles.  For instance, shifts may occur between one’s home and work roles, roles between parent and spouse, or movement between or within social domains (e.g. school, religious groups, social organizations).

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