Arnett Theory



Arnett Theory

Emerging Adulthood is the transition between youth and adulthood, marked by the postponement of marriage, children and financial independence. Jeffrey Arnett, psychologist and editor of the Journal of Adolescent Research, presented this theory. We will present his theory in detail, explaining the development of an individual.

He gave a new name of "Emerging Adulthood", to the life between youth and adulthood. This stage is characterized by a five key steps including becoming an adult: finishing school, leaving the parents house, win economic independence, marriage and children. According to Arnett, this stage begins at the age of 18 in United States and may extend to 29. In Chile, as in other South American countries, young people tend to stay up later at home, delaying this process," explains the expert to La Tercera. Thus, the beginning of emerging adulthood in Chile would start at the age of 23 years, when young people finish their undergraduate studies and extend to 34 or so.

The idea that there is a new stage of transition to adulthood had been raised in 2007 by William Galston, a sociologist and former adviser to Bill Clinton. He mentioned the existence of "years of the Odyssey", a period between 25 and 35, characterized by several movements to/from home. However, Arnett goes further: "Much has been written about Generation X and Y, however, these are certain moments and people. This may be a permanent social change for generations to come (Kurtines, et.al, 2008).

This theory could be observed in the labor market. Today young people do not spend more than two years in the same job, and look for more money, looking for a pleasant work environment and quality of life. According to the author, this is the biggest difference between young people today and 15 years ago.

Arnett gives an ...