Emerging adulthood and early adulthood

Emerging adulthood and early adulthood is a developmental stage proposed by psychologist Jeffrey Arnett during which individuals explore their identity and develop a sense of self. This period, typically ranging from the late teens to the mid-to-late twenties, is characterized by change and exploration of different life directions.

Definition

Emerging adulthood is a phase of the life span between adolescence and full-fledged adulthood, proposed by Arnett in a 2000 article in the American Psychologist. It primarily encompasses the late teens and early twenties, where individuals are no longer adolescents but have not yet reached full adulthood.

Early adulthood, on the other hand, is a more traditional term that typically refers to individuals aged 20 to 40. It is a period marked by establishing personal and economic independence, identity exploration, and the negotiation of intimacy.

Characteristics

Emerging adulthood and early adulthood are characterized by five main features: identity explorations, instability, self-focus, feeling in-between, and possibilities.

Developmental Tasks

During this period, individuals often face a number of developmental tasks, such as completing education, finding employment, and establishing a romantic relationship.

Health and Well-being

Emerging and early adulthood is a critical period for the development of lifelong health behaviors.

Cultural Variations

The concept of emerging adulthood has been found to be somewhat culturally specific.

Criticism

The concept of emerging adulthood has been criticized for its Western-centric focus and for its assumption that all individuals have the resources and opportunities to explore their identities.

See Also

• Adolescence
• Adulthood
• Identity formation
• Jeffrey Arnett