Throughout your textbook the developmental period of emerging adulthood (18-25 years old) is discussed. Jeffrey Arnett (2000) suggests that this period of development is defined by identity exploration, instability, self-focused behaviors and thoughts, a feeling of being in-between adolescence and adulthood, and an overwhelming sense of optimism for the future. Other researchers, such as James Côté (2014), have criticized the theory of emerging adulthood calling it a dangerous myth and a form of institutionalized moratorium on identity formation. These researchers often cite research on emerging adults that show increases in depression, anxiety, suicidal behavior, substance abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases during this development period. Further, another criticism of emerging adulthood research is that the majority of research focuses on American students at four-year universities. For Paper Assignment #3, you should respond to the following using the sources provided to you as well as additional peer-reviewed sources you find:
- Evaluate the theory of emerging adulthood and discuss the criticisms of the theory. Is the theory an accurate reflection of the experiences of 18 to 25-year-olds? Why or why not?
- Are there differences in risky behaviors and identity formation for emerging adults who are students and those who are not students? What other differences are there between students and non-students in emerging adulthood?
- Is the developmental period of emerging adulthood found in other countries besides the United States? Why or why not? What factors influence the occurrence of the emerging adulthood in these countries?
