Emerging adulthood, an expression that has become fixed in social analysis, is an important category and has been expounded in exceptionally helpful ways by Christian Smith (et al, Lost in Transition), and here is Bergler’s summary:
The result is a life stage that is beset with problems, losses, and even tragic outcomes, but populated by people who put a bold face on matters and insist they have “no regrets.” In particular, Smith and his research team found that American society is not preparing young people to become healthy, productive adults in five important areas of life: moral reasoning, higher life purpose, substance use, sexuality, and civic engagement.
First, they are unable to think clearly about moral matters. They can’t say what makes some things right and others wrong. About all they can say is that they “just know” or “just feel” when something is wrong. They’re pretty sure that each person needs to make up his or her own mind about morality.
Second, they unquestioningly accept consumerism and the American Dream and do not have any higher aspirations in life.
Third, many abuse alcohol, and a significant minority abuse drugs.
Fourth, they do not hold a high view of sex as something powerful that should be treated with care. Most follow a pattern of serial monogamy, and most romantic relationships involve sexual intercourse.
Fifth, they do not participate in politics, community service, or charitable giving. They hope to be more civically minded “someday,” just as they hope to achieve the American Dream with a happy family and lots of stuff (6).
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