#265 Who are Emerging Adults?

     “emerging adulthood is a relatively new developmental stage, a product of changing culture in the developed world. With this change in culture, the age of marriage and parenthood has moved to a later time in life. This delay in the onset of adult family responsibilities contributes to a delay in other aspects of development as well, especially the need to make early decisions about work and career choices. As a result, the period of life from about age 18 to age 29, which used to be the time for starting careers and raising young children, has now become a time that is open, free of adult responsibilities, and ripe for exploration and self-discovery.
     … the search for identity is typical of this age group. … seven vectors of student development: developing competence, moving through autonomy toward independence, developing mature interpersonal relationships, developing purpose, establishing identity, managing emotions, and developing integrity. … highlights the seeking, questioning nature of this time of life. Emerging adults are seekers.”

       Rogers H, Maytan M. Mindfulness for the Next Generation. Helping Emerging Adults Manage Stress and Lead Healthier Lives. Oxford University Press, NY, 2012.

Looking for Yesterday by Kristiina Lehtonen   http://www.kristiinalehtonen.fi/index_en.php