Projective presage: a grounded theory of baby boomer divorcees approaching retirement

This research has investigated how recent increases in the eligibility age to the age pension have impacted upon the life trajectories of divorced, single women in private rental accommodation, who will be the most economically disadvantaged of all retirees. A grounded theory analysis was conducted of a cohort of women within this category and a model of 'Projective Presage' was developed. This model shows how the affected women have developed a sense of foreboding with respect to their ability to sustain a comfortable retirement. In order to cope with this foreboding the participants have developed a range of cognitive and emotional strategies which are analysed within the model of Projective Presage.