Transition theory proposes that transitions involve changes in relationships, routines, assumptions, and roles. A transition is defined as any event or non-event that results in such changes. The meaning of a transition depends on how the individual perceives it. Schlossberg's transition theory analyzes transitions based on their type, context, and impact. It was later revised to include three components: approaching change, taking stock using the 4 S's (situation, self, support, strategies), and taking charge by moving in, moving through, and moving out of the transition.

1. Transition Theory
Schlossberg Waters and Goodman
(1995)

2. An Overview of Schlossberg’s
Transition Theory
• Transition: any event, or non-event that
results in changed
relationships, routines, assumptions, and roles
• If an individual does not recognise an event
etc as a transition then it is not considered to
be a transition but a ‘change’

3. • According to Schlossberg, it important to
understand the meaning that a transition has
for a particular individual
• To do this involves considering the
1. type
2. context
3. impact of the transition

4. 1. Type of transition
– anticipated - occur predictably
– unanticipated - not predictable or scheduled
– chronic “hassles” - pervasive and continuous
– non-event - expected but do not occur

5. 2. Context
• Identify the relationship [or context] of the
individual to the event or non-event resulting
in changes

6. 3. Impact of the transition
• Assess the impact that the transition has on the
individual to determine the degree to which a
transition alters daily life.
• Both positive and negative transitions, as perceived by
the individual, produce stress; the impact of such stress
is dependent on the ratio of the individual’s assets and
liabilities
• Assets and Liabilities: The balance between recent
positive and negative affective experiences that more
effectively predicts the individuals subjective sense of
well-being that either type of experience alone
(Schlossberg, 1984) – see diagram over

7. The Individual in Transition
(Schlossberg, 1984)

8. The Individual in Transition: A
Detailed Look (Schlossberg, 1984)

9. Revised theory
• theory was revised in 1989 and 1995, the latter with
the help of Waters and Goodman (1995)
• the new conceptualized theory: three components:
– approaching change
– taking stock - the 4 S’s: situation, self, support, and
strategies (see next slide)
– taking charge – moving in, moving through, and moving
out
• moving in - learn the ropes to become familiar with the
rules, regulations, norms, and expectation of the new systems
• moving through - survival mode
• moving out – may experience feelings of grief event if the
individual perceives the transition to be a positive one and self
initiated

10. Coping with transitions –
assets/libilities

11. Worksheet – taking stock
Transition Theory (Schlossberg et al. 1995)
Taking stock – factors that influence an individual’s ability to cope with transition
Analyse your 4S’s (assets and liabilities)
Situation
What kind of a transition is it? Positive/negative? Expected/unexpected? Desired? Dreaded?
Timing – good or worst possible? Voluntary/imposed? Where are you in this transition –
beginning/middle/end?
Self
What strengths/weaknesses do you bring to this situation? What are your previous experiences of
transition? What options do you believe you have? How do you deal with uncertainty?
Supports
Who will help or hinder you? Family? Friends? Workers? Minister? Colleagues? In what ways can they
support you?
Strategies (plan of action)
What coping strategies do you have? How creative are you? How do you manage stress?