Emerging Adulthood: A Psychodynamic Approach to the New Developmental Phase of the 21st Century

The concept of emerging adulthood, defined by identity exploration, instability, self-focus, and a sense of wide-open possibilities, is a period between adolescence and adulthood. This new volume argues that it is more useful to look at early emerging adulthood, late adolescence, and later emerging adulthood separately. It examines the overarching similarities and developmental distinctions between these two periods and delves into the identity process, youth culture, and treatment modalities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2023
Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing

The concept of adulthood is a complex and multifaceted one, and it has evolved significantly over time. In the past, traditional markers of adulthood, such as living independently, having a stable career path, getting married, or becoming a parent, were widely accepted as indicators of maturity. However, in the digital age, particularly in Western societies, these traditional markers have been increasingly postponed and redefined. This has led to the emergence of a new concept called emerging adulthood, which is a period between adolescence and adulthood that is characterized by identity exploration, instability, self-focus, feeling in-between, and a sense of wide-open possibilities.

Emerging adulthood is typically defined as the period between ages 18 and 29 years, although some contemporary researchers argue that it is more useful to look at early emerging adulthood (ages 18–23) and later emerging adulthood (ages 24–29) separately. While certain broad trends characterize the entire decade, such as role experimentation and a focus on self-discovery, the developmental capacities and tasks of the earlier years are distinct from those of the mid- to late 20s.

In Emerging Adulthood: A Psychodynamic Approach to the New Developmental Phase of the 21st Century, author Jeffrey Jensen Arnett, Ph.D., examines the overarching similarities and developmental distinctions between these two periods and subsequently delves into several key topics. These include:

Identity Process in Contemporary Society: The book explores the identity process in contemporary society, particularly in the context of the digital world. It examines how race/ethnicity, gender and sexuality, values, and professional roles play a significant role in shaping individuals' identities. It also highlights the inevitable intersection of identity with technology, connection to peers, and the broader social and cultural forces that shape identity development.

Youth Culture and Individuation: The book emphasizes the centrality of youth culture in aiding the individuation from family of origin. It explores how technology, connection to peers, and the broader cultural landscape contribute to the formation of individual identities and the development of a sense of self. It also examines the challenges and opportunities that young people face in navigating the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Conclusion: Emerging adulthood is a period of significant transition and growth, and it is characterized by a complex interplay of social, cultural, and psychological factors. By examining the similarities and developmental distinctions between early emerging adulthood and later emerging adulthood, as well as the role of youth culture in shaping identity development, this book provides a valuable insight into the complex process of becoming an adult in the 21st century.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781615374199