New research has shown men turn the tables on women at being the happiest at work as they near retirement.

New research from psychologists at Quality of Working Life (QoWL) has revealed a “pre-retirement” bounce in men who are nearing retirement.

The study, which was undertaken in conjunction with the University of Portsmouth, showed that people over the age of 60 reported that they were significantly happier in their work than people in a lower-age group.

The research also showed that the under-25’s enjoyed a happier work life.

However, it was the varying trends between men and women in the higher age group which has prompted discussion.

Previous research has shown that women are generally happier in work than men, but this latest study has shown evidence which pointed towards a startling difference between genders as they approach retirement.

Psychologists leading the study are unclear as to why men appear to be much happier in work at this stage of their life and QoWL are investigating possible reasons.

The report from QoWL suggests that one possible explanation could be to do with the type of occupations men and women have. It could be argued that some men have the prospect of a much higher pension, thus alleviating a possible source of anxiety.

Another possible reason could be to do with the gender differences in attitudes towards work and retirement. Men may look forward to retiring more as they see an opportunity to enjoy life to the full, whereas many women may yearn for the social side of working and the prospect of this stopping may not fulfil them.

Dr Darren Van Laar, Lead Researcher at QoWL Ltd, said: “While we are now beginning to identify the factors that contribute to quality of working life, this research underlines the potential benefits that might be reaped from taking action to enhance the work environment and experience for all age groups.”