Emerging young adulthood

Asha Pemberton

Over the past few decades, psychologists and anthropologists have recognised emerging young adulthood as the period of development between the ages of 18 and 25, distinct from adolescence and other stages of adulthood.

Since the concept of adolescence is relatively new to some parents in our community, adding yet another life stage may be difficult to accept. It is important, however for us to collectively understand the nuances of each of these stages. Appropriate support and approach can dramatically affect the future trajectory of young people.

As defined, emerging young adulthood has five distinct features or milestones. Some of these also occur during other life stages but assume more prominence during these years. Collectively they make this a specific period of development.

Exploration of Identity

Emerging young adulthood is a time for further exploration by young people into who they are. This relates to their intimate relationships, career pursuits, value systems and beliefs. It is a time when long-standing friendships can fizzle due to life shifts in opposing directions. Now legally adults, young people are able to make more important decisions independently as well as contend with the variety of outcomes. Through this time they continue to grapple with the existential questions of identity: Who am I? What does the world have to offer and, how do I fit in?

Focus on Self

Emerging young adulthood is perhaps the first time when individuals can basically do what they want and not answer to anyone. At least partially so! There is a loosening of parental grip and differences in social obligations and expectations leading to youth being more self-focussed. During this time, in general, they focus on activities that lead to pleasure.

Youth slowly learn the value of being self-sufficient and socially responsible. Interestingly, emerging young adults often engage in a complex dynamic of focusing on self and still focussing on romantic partners, almost to the exclusion of others or responsibilities. The creation of a healthy balance between these dynamics sets the stage for future partnerships and long term relationships, if managed with appropriate support and provision of parents.

Feeling In-between

When directly asked, most young people during this stage say that “they feel in-between”. This typically refers to their awareness that by age, completion of secondary school and other social domains they are no longer adolescents. Yet still they typically cannot completely manage themselves, take on major responsibility, or make sufficient income to be “true adults”. The “in-between” feeling is characteristic of this stage and quite normal.

Instability

Emerging adulthood is a time of instability. It is common for emerging young adults to change jobs, switch majors at University, or feel confused about the next best step. This is even more prominent today due to the very wide range of options seemingly available for young people. This is another critical area in which patient but consistent parental support can lead to vast improvements in decision making skills for young people.

The Age of Possibilities

Emerging young adulthood is the age of possibilities. It is an opportunity for young people to transform their lives. There is an opportunity for them to break away from unhealthy dynamics or trauma and create better lives for themselves.

Despite this age of opportunity, as a collective, we insufficiently mentor, support or even talk about emerging young adults. Culturally, some will believe that they are now “adult” and need to sink-or-swim on their own, whereas other yearn to cling on to them as children.

Neither approach will support youth in reaching their fullest potential. Through considerations of this stage, active efforts can be made to ensure young adults emerge to be their very best.