DEV2004 Chapter 7 Emerging Adulthood

Podcast Beta

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the age range for emerging adulthood?

15-25

40-45

18-29 (correct)

30-35

Which of the following best describes the transition into established adulthood?

The end of identity exploration.

The beginning of financial independence.

The onset of adolescence.

Transitioning from ages 30 to 45. (correct)

What characteristic of emerging adulthood distinguishes it from adolescence according to Arnett?

It is predominantly a period of unemployment.

It is a time of complete financial independence.

It is characterized by reduced responsibilities.

It is an age of identity exploration. (correct)

Which statement accurately reflects Erik Erikson's perspective on identity development?

Most identity development occurs during the late teens and early twenties. Signup and view all the answers

What trend did Erikson highlight in industrialized societies during the 20th century?

A marked 'prolonged adolescence'. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of the period of emerging adulthood?

Greater scope for independent exploration. Signup and view all the answers

During which ages is adulthood generally considered to begin?

18 Signup and view all the answers

What major developmental shift occurs from emerging adulthood to established adulthood?

Shift from identity exploration to responsibility. Signup and view all the answers

What do emerging adults in the United States and Europe most commonly rank as a crucial marker of adulthood?

Financial independence Signup and view all the answers

How do emerging adults from Asian cultural backgrounds typically view financial support compared to Western counterparts?

They prioritize supporting parents over personal financial independence. Signup and view all the answers

What factor has contributed to the changing views on adulthood markers?

Economic and social changes Signup and view all the answers

Which age group is defined as 'established adults'?

30 to 45 Signup and view all the answers

What is a common trend for emerging adults regarding career paths in their twenties?

They frequently change jobs before settling down. Signup and view all the answers

Which living arrangement trend was noted for adults aged 18 to 34 in 2014?

More adults were living with their parents than with partners. Signup and view all the answers

What influence do societal changes have on the timing of marriage for established adults?

There is a notable delay in marriage and parenthood. Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of early adults were living with a spouse or partner in their own household by 2014?

31.6% Signup and view all the answers

How do college students' views on adulthood differ based on their involvement with traditional values?

Participation in organizations can heighten the importance of role transitions. Signup and view all the answers

What was the traditional living arrangement for young adults in 1960 compared to 2014?

Living with a spouse or partner was preferred in 1960. Signup and view all the answers

Which ethnic group had the highest percentage of early adults living at home?

Black Signup and view all the answers

At what age do many physical changes begin to occur in early adulthood?

30 Signup and view all the answers

What BMI value classifies an individual as obese?

30.0 or greater Signup and view all the answers

In 2014, what percentage of young men were residing with their parents?

35% Signup and view all the answers

What change in the body typically begins around the age of 30?

Stiffening of the lens of the eye Signup and view all the answers

What is the average weight gain for individuals during their 20s from early to middle adulthood?

1 to 2 pounds per year Signup and view all the answers

What demographic distinction is emphasized in relation to the theory of emerging adulthood?

The contrast between developed and developing countries. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following changes is considered part of the aging process during early adulthood?

Decreased sensitivity to sound Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of European societies impacts the experience of emerging adulthood?

Government support for education and housing. Signup and view all the answers

What was the estimated percentage of adults aged 20 and over who were considered obese in 2016?

39.8% Signup and view all the answers

How do Asian emerging adults' experiences differ from those of their European counterparts?

They have a legacy of collectivism impacting their decisions. Signup and view all the answers

Which group was more likely to be living with a spouse or partner in their own household in 2014?

Young women Signup and view all the answers

What is a common age for entering marriage and parenthood among emerging adults in OECD countries?

Near 30 years old. Signup and view all the answers

What impact does globalization have on Asian emerging adults?

It has made them more individualistic compared to their ancestors. Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes to the leisurely experience of emerging adulthood in Europe?

Generous social welfare systems. Signup and view all the answers

Which group of countries is classified as developed countries according to OECD?

Canada, South Korea, and Western European countries. Signup and view all the answers

What is one characteristic of developing countries as identified in the content?

Lower median incomes and poor health outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of postsecondary education is true for most OECD countries?

There is a universal trend toward increasing participation in postsecondary education. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements is true regarding the experiences of emerging adults in Europe and Asia?

European emerging adults focus primarily on self-development. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of emerging adults during this developmental period?

Exploring career choices and intimate relationships Signup and view all the answers

How does Arnett differentiate emerging adults from adolescents in terms of self-focus?

Emerging adults balance self-focus with consideration of others. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major factor contributing to obesity according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention?

Behavior and environment Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of 18 to 25 year-olds felt they were adults in some ways during Arnett's study?

60% Signup and view all the answers

As of 2014, what was the percentage of global obesity rates among women?

14.9% Signup and view all the answers

What is stated as a characteristic of emerging adulthood regarding self-perception?

They often feel in-between adolescence and adulthood. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the emotional outlook of emerging adults?

They generally experience optimism about possibilities. Signup and view all the answers

Which country has the highest number of obese individuals?

USA Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the health consequences of obesity?

High blood pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is one common aspect of emerging adulthood noted in the research?

Frequent changes in jobs, relationships, and residences Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of people ages 18 or older reported drinking alcohol at some point in their lifetime?

88% Signup and view all the answers

How did Arnett's research address socioeconomic class differences in emerging adulthood?

Lower socioeconomic groups showed significant differences in adult perceptions. Signup and view all the answers

During which stage of life do doctor visits become necessitated primarily by pregnancy and injury?

Early adulthood Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a typical feeling experienced by emerging adults?

Complete independence from parents Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'age of instability' refer to in emerging adulthood?

Frequent changes in life circumstances and commitments Signup and view all the answers

Which health condition is NOT typically associated with obesity?

High intelligence Signup and view all the answers

What allows emerging adults to transform their lives according to their circumstances?

The opportunity to move out and change environments Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant cause of death among young adults?

Non-intentional injury Signup and view all the answers

What factor significantly contributes to risky behavior among young adults?

Alcohol abuse Signup and view all the answers

Obesity is most likely the result of what?

Complex interactions among genes and environment Signup and view all the answers

Which group has the highest level of alcohol consumption?

Students in fraternities and sororities Signup and view all the answers

What strategy has been effective in reducing college drinking?

Educational programs for incoming students Signup and view all the answers

At what age does illicit drug use peak?

19-22 Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of college students reported daily marijuana use in 2014?

6% Signup and view all the answers

Which substance misuse was reported to be twice as high among those aged 18-25 compared to 12-17 year-olds?

Prescription opioids Signup and view all the answers

What effect do drugs and alcohol have on risky sexual behavior?

They impair judgment and increase risk-taking Signup and view all the answers

How much did prescription drug overdose deaths increase since 1999?

Four times as much Signup and view all the answers

According to research, which gender role has traditionally been associated with nurturing?

Feminine roles Signup and view all the answers

Which group is considered at-risk for alcohol consumption among college students?

First year students Signup and view all the answers

Which cultural variation influences perceptions of gender expression?

Global cultural differences Signup and view all the answers

What is defined as heavy drinking?

Drinking five or more drinks on the same occasion on each of five or more days in the past 30 days Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of college students aged 18–22 reported binge drinking in the past month?

38% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about alcohol-related consequences in college students is true?

1,825 college students aged 18 to 24 die from alcohol-related unintentional injuries each year Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant predictor of acquaintance rape on college campuses?

Alcohol use Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of people ages 18 or older reported engaging in binge drinking in the past month?

25% Signup and view all the answers

Which group has higher incidences of alcohol consumption?

Full-time college students aged 18–22 Signup and view all the answers

How many college students are estimated to meet the criteria for an Alcohol Use Disorder?

1 in 4 Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the effect of social pressures on freshman college students' drinking habits?

Social pressures can lead to increased drinking during the first six weeks Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of college students aged 18–22 engaged in heavy drinking?

12% Signup and view all the answers

What factors are associated with increased alcohol use among college students?

Pervasive availability of alcohol and coping with stressors Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of gender roles is indicated to be derived from cultural traditions rather than biology?

Career choices Signup and view all the answers

Which term represents a modern umbrella identification for diverse gender identities?

Two-spirit Signup and view all the answers

Which group is reported to face the highest levels of discrimination among transgender individuals?

Black transgender people Signup and view all the answers

What model explains the higher rates of anxiety and depression among gender nonconforming individuals?

Minority stress model Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT considered an external stressor in the context of gender minority status?

Negative self-perception Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic is particularly vulnerable to discrimination and violence within the transgender community?

Transgender women of color Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of gender identity is challenged by current psychological research?

The concept of gender binary Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the experiences of transgender individuals compared to cisgender individuals?

Lower self-esteem Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the choices of some transgender individuals regarding body alteration?

Many opt to maintain their original anatomy Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misunderstanding about transvestites and transgender individuals?

Not all transvestites identify as transgender Signup and view all the answers

What hormone is most directly associated with increased motivation for sexual behavior in males?

Vasopressin Signup and view all the answers

At what age range do men typically experience their peak sexual responsiveness?

Late teens to early twenties Signup and view all the answers

How do women's sexual responsiveness trends typically differ from men's across their 20s and 30s?

Women may peak later than men Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following STIs is NOT commonly included in the list of prevalent infections?

Influenza Signup and view all the answers

What does cross-dressing primarily represent?

A form of self-expression or personal style Signup and view all the answers

What practice is considered the most effective way to prevent transmission of STIs?

Practicing safe sex Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of sexuality does not directly relate to biological functions?

Emotional aspects Signup and view all the answers

Which factors have historically influenced societal views on sexuality in the United States?

Religion and philosophy Signup and view all the answers

What phase follows the plateau phase in the sexual response cycle?

Orgasm Signup and view all the answers

In Western culture, what is typical regarding premarital sex during emerging adulthood?

It is normative by late teens Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a common behavior of sexually active adults concerning cohabitation before marriage in the United States?

Cohabitation is widely practiced Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is primarily associated with sexual motivation in males?

Testosterone Signup and view all the answers

What has been a significant influence on sexual identity and attitudes among American teens in recent years?

Peers and media Signup and view all the answers

What structure in the brain is primarily responsible for translating pleasurable sensations during sexual activity?

Cerebral cortex Signup and view all the answers

How do social factors influence sexual motivation?

By affecting family dynamics and work-life balance Signup and view all the answers

What social script regarding sexuality has media been known to perpetuate?

Body shaming and unhealthy relationships Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is known for its role during sexual intercourse and is also associated with relationships?

Oxytocin Signup and view all the answers

What aspect does not significantly shape human sexuality?

Genetic inheritance Signup and view all the answers

What element is crucial for regulating hormones related to sexual behavior?

Pituitary gland Signup and view all the answers

Which phase of the sexual response cycle is characterized by physiological changes in preparation for orgasm?

Plateau Signup and view all the answers

What does the fraternal birth order effect suggest about male sexual orientation?

It increases the likelihood of homosexuality with each older brother. Signup and view all the answers

Which biological factor is linked to the development of same-sex orientation in females?

Exposure to high levels of prenatal androgens. Signup and view all the answers

What role do twin studies play in understanding sexual orientation?

They indicate a hereditary component to sexual orientation. Signup and view all the answers

How does homophobia impact sexual minorities?

It contributes to stigma and violence against these groups. Signup and view all the answers

What factor is suggested to explain the 15% to 29% incidence of homosexuality in males with older brothers?

Maternal immunization against male-specific proteins. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of the United States in relation to sexual orientation?

It is considered heteronormative, privileging heterosexuality. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors contributes to higher rates of depression among LGBTQ+ youth?

Rejection from peers and family. Signup and view all the answers

What current trend is observed regarding discrimination based on sexual orientation in the United States?

Policies preventing discrimination have only recently been established. Signup and view all the answers

What is a result of negative attitudes towards sexual minorities in society?

Increased likelihood of discrimination and violence. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea behind Alfred Kinsey's conceptualization of sexual orientation?

Sexual orientation is fluid and exists on a continuum. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes sexual orientation according to the American Psychological Association?

It includes emotional and sexual attraction to a particular gender. Signup and view all the answers

How does asexuality differ from other sexual orientations?

It indicates a lack of sexual attraction to any gender. Signup and view all the answers

What trend has been observed regarding the awareness of sexual orientation?

Awareness typically occurs between middle childhood and early adolescence. Signup and view all the answers

Which new terms have emerged to describe non-binary models of attraction?

Pansexuality and polysexuality. Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated percentage of the population identified as asexual?

Around 1 percent. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of sexual orientation is not supported by scientific consensus?

Sexual orientation is static and inborn. Signup and view all the answers

What does bisexuality traditionally refer to?

Attraction to individuals regardless of sex or gender. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the development of sexual orientation?

Individuals may not recognize their sexual orientation until later in life. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes sexual orientation according to current understanding?

It is influenced by a combination of biological, social, and cultural factors. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Emerging and Established Adulthood

Early adulthood is divided into two stages: Emerging adulthood (ages 18-29) and established adulthood (ages 30-45).
This period is characterized by peak physical capabilities, mature cognitive development, financial independence, and intimate relationships.

Emerging Adulthood Defined

Emerging adulthood represents a transitional phase where individuals have left childhood yet have not fully embraced adult responsibilities.
This stage features identity exploration, indicating significant career and relationship development.
Includes five key characteristics:
- Age of Identity Exploration: Identity formation largely occurs during this period rather than adolescence.
- Age of Instability: Frequent changes in jobs, residences, and relationships abound, leading to uncertainty.
- Age of Self-Focus: Emerging adults focus on personal goals while still being considerate of others, particularly parents.
- Feeling In-Between: Young adults often oscillate between feeling adult-like and remaining dependent in some areas, with 60% feeling duality in adulthood.
- Age of Possibilities: A time of optimism where emerging adults envision achieving personal dreams and escaping unfavorable circumstances.

Socioeconomic Class and Cultural Variations

Emerging adulthood theory initially criticized for representing primarily upper-middle-class experiences in the U.S.
Research across socioeconomic classes indicates variations in perceptions of adulthood, particularly among lower-income individuals.
In developed countries, emerging adulthood transitions are marked by profound educational engagement and changes in marriage and parenthood timings.
Cultural differences exist, with Western perceptions embracing individualism and financial independence; Asian cultures often emphasize familial obligations over individual aspirations.

Transition to Adulthood

Transition markers have shifted away from marriage and parenthood towards financial independence and personal responsibility as indicators of adulthood in contemporary Western culture.
Role transition markers are still valued particularly among traditional or collectivist-oriented individuals.

Established Adulthood Defined

Established adults (ages 30-45) tend to focus more on career advancement, intimate relationships, and parenting, usually after completing education in their twenties.
Individuals often settle into stable long-term careers and have children, taking on substantial family responsibilities.

Living Arrangements and Trends

In 2014, more U.S. adults aged 18-34 lived with their parents than with partners, reversing a 130-year trend.
36% of black and Hispanic early adults lived at home compared to 30% of white young adults; young men were more likely to live with parents versus young women.
Factors influencing this trend include economic factors, delayed marriages, and changing societal norms regarding adulthood.

The Physiological Peak

Individuals in early adulthood (mid-twenties to mid-forties) experience peak physical health and capabilities, including muscle strength and reproductive health.
Gradual aging signs begin around age 30, leading to slight declines in physical functionalities like vision and strength over time.

Obesity in Early Adulthood

By 2016, approximately 39.8% of U.S. adults were classified as obese, attributed to environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors.
Key definitions:
- BMI Categories: Overweight (BMI 25.0–29.9) and Obesity (BMI ≥ 30.0).
Obesity is a leading cause of death and results in significantly elevated medical care costs in the United States, totaling approximately $147 billion in 2008.### Health Risks of Obesity
Obesity significantly increases the risk of serious health issues, including mortality, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke.
Other health implications include gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, certain cancers (endometrial, breast, colon, kidney, gallbladder, liver), mental illnesses, and reduced quality of life.

Early Adulthood Health Trends

Early adulthood is marked by less frequent doctor visits, mainly due to injuries and pregnancy.
Top causes of death in this age group are non-intentional injury, homicide, suicide, cancer, and heart disease.

Alcohol Consumption and Risks

88% of individuals aged 18+ reported drinking alcohol at least once; 57% drank in the past month.
Heavy drinking affects 6.7% of adults, leading to approximately 88,000 annual alcohol-related deaths.
Alcohol-impaired driving resulted in nearly 10,000 fatalities in 2014, accounting for 31% of all driving fatalities.

College Drinking Statistics

60% of full-time college students aged 18-22 drank alcohol in the past month compared to 51.5% of their non-college peers.
38% of college students engaged in binge drinking; 12% reported heavy drinking.
Consequences of college drinking include approximately 1,825 deaths from unintentional injuries and 696,000 assaults by intoxicated students annually.

Alcohol is a significant predictor of sexual assault on college campuses, with over 80% of assaults involving alcohol.
Intoxication increases the risk for victims and often leads to greater self-blame for female victims.

Factors Promoting College Drinking

Influencing factors include alcohol availability, enforcement of drinking laws, social pressures, and stress coping mechanisms.
Freshman year is particularly vulnerable due to the transition to college life and social environments that promote drinking.

Strategies to Decrease College Drinking

Interventions focus on at-risk groups through educational programs, reducing alcohol availability, and engaging health professionals in campus efforts.

Drug Use Trends

Illicit drug use peaks between ages 19-22, with significant opioid misuse reported among emerging adults.
Prescription drug overdoses caused over 1,700 deaths in 2014, with dramatic increases since 1999.

Gender Identity and Cultural Variations

Gender identity expressions vary culturally; societal gender roles continue to create expectations tied to masculinity and femininity.
Individuals challenge traditional gender binaries, leading to a broader understanding of gender identification.

Gender Minority Experiences

Gender nonconforming individuals face higher harassment rates and discrimination in various sectors, particularly marginalized racial groups like transgender people of color.

Mental Health Impacts on Gender Minorities

Transgender and gender nonconforming individuals report elevated levels of anxiety and depression, attributed to external and internal stressors associated with their minority status.

Sexuality and Its Dimensions

Human sexuality encompasses a spectrum of experiences, including emotional, social, and biological aspects, influencing behaviors and overall well-being.
Key sexual hormones include oxytocin, testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone, which play vital roles in sexual motivation and reproductive functions.

Sexual Response Cycle

The cycle involves four main phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution, influencing both male and female sexual experiences differently across the lifespan.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Common STIs include chlamydia, herpes, HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV/AIDS, with 2014 reporting significant increases in chlamydia and gonorrhea cases.
Safe sex practices are critical in preventing STIs, particularly among high-risk populations.### Safe-Sex Supplies
Proper use of condoms, gloves, or dental dams minimizes exposure to sexually transmitted diseases but does not completely eliminate the risk.
Some transmission of diseases may still occur despite barrier methods.

Societal Views on Sexuality

Societal attitudes toward sexuality evolve and are shaped by religion, philosophy, peers, and media.
Historically, religion has had a major influence on sexual behavior in the U.S., but recent trends indicate peers and media significantly influence American teens.
Mass media impacts perceptions of normal sexuality, body image, and sex appeal, affecting sexual identities and attitudes, particularly for women.

Cultural Differences in Sexual Behavior

In Western cultures, premarital sex is common by late teens; cohabitation is also prevalent before marriage in the U.S. and Canada.
Southern Europe views cohabitation as taboo but permits premarital sex, while many Asian cultures forbid both until later adulthood.
A significant cultural difference exists, with about 75% of U.S. and European emerging adults engaging in premarital sex by age 20, compared to less than 20% in Japan and South Korea.

Understanding Sexual Orientation

Sexual orientation encompasses emotional and sexual attraction to specific genders and informs a person’s identity and community membership.
It exists independently of gender identity, allowing transgender individuals to identify with any sexual orientation.

Sexual Orientation Continuum

Alfred Kinsey proposed a seven-point scale to represent sexual orientation as a spectrum rather than a binary concept.
Sexual orientation can be classified into various categories: heterosexuality (straight), homosexuality (gay/lesbian), bisexuality (attraction to any sex/gender), pansexuality, polysexuality, and asexuality (lack of sexual attraction).
Asexuality affects about 1% of the population and is recognized as a distinct sexual orientation.

Development and Fluidity of Sexual Orientation

Awareness of sexual orientation typically emerges between middle childhood and early adolescence, though some may recognize it later in life.
Participants can acknowledge their sexual orientation without engaging in sexual activities.
Research suggests sexual orientation may not be fixed and can be fluid throughout a person's life.

Biological Influences on Sexual Orientation

Heredity contributes to sexual orientation, supported by twin studies indicating higher concordance rates for identical vs. fraternal twins.
The fraternal birth order effect shows that males with older brothers are more likely to identify as homosexual due to maternal immunization theories.
Hormonal exposure during prenatal development is another factor; for example, abnormal levels of prenatal androgens may influence sexual orientation.

Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation

U.S. society predominantly supports heterosexuality, leading to a heteronormative environment where non-heterosexual orientations face discrimination and stigma.
Homophobia includes a spectrum of negative attitudes and behaviors, affecting LGBTQ+ individuals through harassment and violence.
Discrimination can happen in various settings including workplaces, schools, and housing, often influenced by stereotypes and misinformation.

Mental Health Impact on Sexual Minorities

LGBTQ+ youth experience heightened risks of depression and suicide due to rejection and negative portrayals in society.
Many studies on LGBTQ+ populations are biased towards white, middle-class individuals, overlooking the experiences of marginalized groups affected by intersecting social issues.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the developmental stages of early adulthood in this quiz focusing on Emerging and Established Adulthood. Learn about the physical, cognitive, and social developments that occur between the ages of 18 and 45. This chapter highlights key concepts from Mehta et al., 2020, concerning these important life stages.