Final answer:
The term 'disengagement' describes the process by which an individual withdraws from society as theorized in the disengagement theory, indicating that such withdrawal is a natural part of aging.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process whereby an individual withdraws from society, or when society no longer seeks an individual's efforts, is known as disengagement. This concept is a part of the disengagement theory, which is an early gerontological theory within the functionalist perspective. It suggests that withdrawing from society and social relationships is a natural part of aging. The theory posits that because of the inevitable physical and mental declines accompanying aging, individuals naturally reduce engagement with others and with society at large. As this occurs, the pressure to conform to societal norms correspondingly decreases, potentially offering greater personal freedom for the individual.
Another important aspect of the disengagement theory is the recognition that social withdrawal is gendered, thus is experienced differently by men and women. This notion is based on the presumption that men and women have historically engaged with society in different ways, primarily through work and family roles respectively. As individuals age, and these roles diminish due to retirement or loss of family members, the theory suggests that seniors need to find new roles that are suitable for their disengaged state in order to maintain personal fulfillment and well-being.