Final answer:
The process where an individual distances themselves from societal roles or when society stops engaging with the individual is known as disengagement theory, which posits that such withdrawal is a natural part of aging.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process whereby an individual withdraws from society or society withdraws from or no longer seeks the individual's efforts is known as disengagement theory.
This theory was one of the earliest in the field of gerontology to suggest that it is a natural part of aging to withdraw from social relationships and societal roles. It highlights several points:
- Withdrawal is expected as people come to anticipate the end of life and experience physical and mental decline.
- This withdrawal results in less social pressure to conform to norms, thereby granting greater freedom.
- Disengagement is gendered and affects men and women differently based on traditional societal roles associated with work and family.
Disengagement often coincides with retirement or other major life transitions in older adults and can signify a shift in priorities or capacities as they age.