Correlates of sex roles of older adults.

Current concepts of sex role development suggest that roles vary between sex-appropriate polar masculinity and femininity to complex androgyny at various points in life. Reviews of previous research suggest that certain roles may be more or less adaptive for an individual. In the exploratory study reported here 364 community-dwelling older adults described their own sex roles using the Bem Sex Role Inventory and were tested with additional measures of mental and physical health and current life situation. Most elderly persons described androgynous roles. Perceived sex roles related to several dimensions of life situation and well-being.