Events, Transitions & Trajectories

ILAS considers the life course in terms of events, transitions and life trajectories (or pathways). Individuals’ lives are shaped by the events and transitions that happen over the course of their lives, with these combining to create a particular pathway through life. This involves considering events like entering and leaving education, starting and leaving work, entering into personal relationships, and experiences of loss and change, such as bereavement, or the onset of chronic ill-health. It also entails looking at transitions into certain roles, such as becoming a parent, a family carer or a grandparent.

Individuals in the same group, such as people with disabilities, children, and older adults, can have very different life events and transitions. These events can bring resources and opportunities, but they can also be challenging and reduce well-being. Studying these differences helps us understand the diverse life experiences within a community and why some individuals or groups are better off than others.

For example, ICSG's PLACED-Lives project examines how critical transitions, or rupture events, in older adulthood contribute to multidimensional social exclusion later in life. It also explores how place and community can mediate this exclusion.

Another example is the ICSG's GENPATH project, which looks at gender differences in social exclusion across European countries and its impact on health and well-being. The findings will contribute to scientific discussions on social exclusion and help shape policies to reduce social isolation among older men and women. This project aligns with SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.