“The sequential (and often permanent) exiting from one role and entering of another over time, such as a promotion (Ashforth, 2001) or downward job transition (Sargent, 2001).” (Desrochers & Sargent).
Ashforth, Kreiner, and Fugate’s (2000) development of boundary theory focuses on micro role transitions (defined elsewhere) rather than macro role transitions. Nevertheless, they define macro role transitions as “infrequent and often permanent changes, such as a promotion or retirement” (p. 472). (Desrochers).
For a detailed examination of macro role transitions from a boundary theory and identity theory perspective, see Ashforth (2001), wherein the following definition of the term can be found: “the psychological and (if relevant) physical movement between sequentially held roles” (p. 7). (Ashforth, 2001).
Desrochers S. & Sargent, L. (2003, September 09). Boundary/Border Theory and Work-Family Integration, A Sloan Work and Family Encyclopedia Entry. Chestnut Hill, MA: Boston College.
Ashforth, B. E. (2001). Role transitions in organizational life: An identity-based perspective. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
Sargent, L. D. (2001). Identity: Its maintenance during downward organisational role transitions. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the Academy of Management Conference, Washington D.C.
As defined by Desrochers citing Ashforth, Kreiner, & Fugate:
Ashforth, B. E., Kreiner, G. E., & Fugate, M. (2000). All in a day's work: Boundaries and micro role transitions. Academy of Management Review, 25(3), 472-491.
Ashforth, B. E. (2001). Role transitions in organizational life: An identity-based perspective. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
