NCJ Number
217274
Journal
Journal of Youth and Adolescence Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2007 Pages: 23-29
Date Published
January 2007
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper examines some of the myths about emerging adulthood, the reasons for them, and the data that refute them.
Abstract
Today, emerging adulthood is an age period about which there are wild misstatements made frequently both in popular media and in academic circles. Like the myth of adolescent storm and stress, the myths of emerging adulthood are built around a kernel of truth but have become exaggerated into gross falsehoods. Emerging adulthood is often a time of instability and identity crises. Emerging adults are often self-focused, but it is inaccurate and unfair to call them selfish. Emerging adults often have mixed feelings about reaching adulthood, not because they wish to remain childish but because they have discerned that becoming an adult has costs as well as benefits. Many myths about adolescence have been refuted by research, but similar myths have grown up in recent years around emerging adulthood. This paper addresses those myths which concern there overall well-being: (1) selfishness and (2) their alleged unwillingness to “grow up.” Figure, references