CHAPTER OUTLINE

Biosocial Development

Strong and Active Bodies

Fertility, Then and Now

Taking Risks

Cognitive Development

Postformal Thought

Countering Stereotypes

A VIEW FROM SCIENCE: Undercutting Stereotype Threat

The Effects of College or University

OPPOSING PERSPECTIVES: What Is the Purpose of Post-Secondary Education?

Psychosocial Development

Identity Achieved

Personality in Emerging Adulthood

Intimacy

Family Forces

WHAT WILL YOU KNOW?

• Why have birth rates fallen so dramatically in North America and around the world?
• How can imagining other people’s stereotypes be harmful?
• Does cohabitation precede, ruin, or substitute for marriage?
• Is independence from parents a sign of healthy adulthood?

The years from ages 18 to 25 were once merely part of adulthood; then were distinguished as late adolescence, youth, or early adulthood; and now they are often labelled emerging adulthood. In emerging adulthood, many people seek higher education and explore their identity by postponing marriage or partnership, parenthood, and career.

I experienced this myself. Between ages 18 and 25, I attended four colleges or universities, changed majors five times, rejected marriage proposals from four young men, lived in ten places, and started several jobs—none lasting more than 18 months. After that period of rapid change, I stayed put for 30 years—one husband, one city, one street, one career.

Similar patterns occur everywhere. Although few have as many options as I did, youth in many nations gain more education and choose to marry later than previous generations did, if at all.