This paper examines the central role that employment plays in shaping individual identity and social standing in Western societies. Drawing on research by Fryers, Bielby, and Gibson, the paper argues that work functions not merely as a source of income but as a primary marker of personhood, status, and social legitimacy. It considers how job loss and retirement can produce a profound sense of lost identity, and how some cultures — such as Aboriginal communities in Wilcannia — ground identity in ways unrelated to occupation. The paper concludes that for most Western individuals, finding work consistent with one's self-concept is a central life challenge.
The recent meltdown of the major economies of the world dramatically increased the ranks of the jobless. With high levels of unemployment becoming problematic for many countries, the question of the role of jobs in the lives of individuals becomes a primary concern. We are defined by the jobs that we do. This reality translates into a multiplicity of problems when we are no longer able to work or when we lose our jobs.
One of the first pillars of support for the role that jobs play in our lives comes from the manner in which Western societies are structured. Western societies tend to be organized around the idea of work, or the kind of work that one actually does. Fryers (2006) posits that "Western societies are very work-oriented cultures" (p. 1). This means that the lives of persons in Western societies are structured to ensure that people are working, and the work one is engaged in is a source of status, identity, and respect within the community.
It should be noted that there are peoples whose identity is not tied to occupation. Gibson (2010) posits that the Aboriginal people in Wilcannia derive their sense of identity at birth. However, for most other Western peoples, work and identity are inextricably linked.
Work is seen not simply as a means of receiving an income to survive — it takes on a symbolic meaning. Work in general, and the jobs that we are engaged in, produce and give "social legitimacy to our lives" (Fryers, 2006, p. 2). The idea of social legitimacy is that our value as a member of society is tied to our productive capacity. We are considered effective and functioning members of society when we are employed and contributing to national development.
Some individuals are so inextricably linked to their jobs that job loss is traumatic; others create family dynasties through generations of doing the same kind of work. Not only is the individual defined by the job, but the family is defined by it as well.
"Personal commitment to work reflects self-definition"
"Retirement triggers loss of identity and personhood"
The job of an individual does more than satisfy the need to earn money to address material concerns. Jobs are a source of identity and definition for the individual. In a somewhat unfortunate sense, the distinction between the self and the job is dramatically erased. Thus, the overarching challenge for individuals and members of the labor force may involve finding jobs that are consistent with the way they define themselves.
You’re 61% through this paper. Sign up to read the remaining 2 sections.
Sign Up Now — Instant Access Already a member? Log inAlways verify citation format against your institution’s current style guide requirements.