Final answer:
Retirement is the withdrawal from one's work and a transition towards a new life role, often resulting in a shift in social engagement and activities. The disengagement theory posits that such withdrawal is a natural part of aging, although this perspective has been challenged and is no longer universally accepted as it does not account for the variation in individuals' experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The psychological state of withdrawal from one's work and a new orientation towards work is referred to as retirement. When people retire, they often experience a transition in life roles, activities, and social engagement. The theory that describes this process as a natural and inevitable part of aging is the disengagement theory. This theory, while groundbreaking when first introduced, has since been criticized for suggesting a universal withdrawal and for not acknowledging the wide variation in how individuals experience aging. In modern times, the concept of retirement has evolved, and many older adults choose to remain active in various capacities, including part-time work, volunteering, and other pursuits.
An example illustrating the disengagement theory would be an older man who retires from his job, stops engaging in hobbies like golf, and becomes less connected to his social circle. His situation represents a classic illustration of the disengagement theory, which is characterized by a general pullback from social ties and activities as one grows older.