Thoughts on “What Is It About 20-Somethings?”
A comment on my previous blog drew my attention to an article published last week in the New York Times Magazine, titled “What Is It About 20-Somethings?” The article featured two authors whose books were very helpful as I was researching my own: Dr. Jeffrey Arnett and Christine Hassler. Dr. Arnett coined the term emerging adulthood, which characterizes the stage of identity exploration, transition, and possibility that is common among twentysomethings.
The article centered on the debate over whether or not emerging adulthood is a true, new life stage—or if it is just a passing phase due to cultural and economic forces, and one that only the privileged experience. Although the debate isn’t settled, I found the article to be quite insightful. It painted a nuanced portrait of twentysomethings, addressing factors such as the economy, psychological and brain development, and generational and cultural comparisons.
The article also posed the question: Is emerging adulthood a rich period for self-discovery, or just another term for self-indulgence? This is a question I explored while writing Confusion to Clarity. I discovered that the answer varies from person to person. It has to do with the degree to which we use our circumstances to become more self-aware, to make positive choices, and to take responsibility for our lives. This is why the “quarterlife crisis” has the potential to be such a gift. It is a catalyst for asking ourselves tough, important questions, such as: Who am I? What is my purpose? How do I reach my goals? Because some of the decisions we make in our twenties can affect us for the rest of our lives, this time of reflection is invaluable. And since finding our way can be deeply stressful at times—especially in today’s economy—I always encourage people to reach out for support from sources they trust and respect.
If you haven’t yet read the article, I recommend doing so. Just click here. But it’s long! You might want to make a cup of tea first. And if you’d like to share your own thoughts, I’m interested to hear what you have to say.
This seems to be a hot topic!!! There was a story on the Today Show yesterday on 20-somethings having trouble launching. I hear lots of folks my parents' age wondering "what is wrong?" with this generation. Incidentally, I remember similar comments about MY generation (X) and we seemed turn out OK. Thanks for doing your part to promote growth! Hugs and light. C
You pose very interesting questions. I've always felt that the American quarterlife crisis is so unique, because we are more independent and scattered across wider distances and less likely to celebrate official passages into adulthood with our communities. Therefore, it is a sometimes lonely, uncertain journey to identify ourselves as adults. Whereas in other cultures, passage into adulthood is much more clear, official and communally accepted and recognized.
Keep up the great work! You are pioneering an important path for young adults:)
So true, Elise. All of the factors you mention can trigger profound loneliness and uncertainty for twentysomethings. Feelings of isolation and self-doubt are some of the toughest challenges young adults face when there is a lack of stable, community support. The more we can help support and empower one another, the better. Thanks for your comment!
–Ann
It is a global problem! The development of the world requests more on young people. We were requested to have some skills, but in the mean time, we had to miss some basic ability. The world becomes more and more complicated, and the young people are facing tougher situation. Young people need to be treated leniently.