Chapter 17: Emerging Adulthood: Biosocial Development

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Hey everybody, welcome to another deep dive.

Always exciting to dive in.

Yeah, so today we're going to be looking at this chapter all about emerging adulthood.

Oh yeah.

Which I guess is a fairly new concept in developmental psychology.

It is a newer concept, and I think it's a really important one because it really does recognize that that transition from adolescence into adulthood, it's not just like a light switch, it's a process.

Yeah, it's not like you turn 18 and boom, you're an adult.

There's this whole, we always hear about teenagers and all the stuff they go through, but what about that period from 18 to 25?

Yeah.

What's going on there?

Huge developmental period.

Yeah, so we're going to talk all about some of the stuff in this chapter, like how emerging adults are basically like physical superheroes.

Yes, they are at their peak physical fitness.

But also how their views on sex and relationships are changing and why they seem to love taking risks.

Right, all about exploration, and we'll talk about why that is developmentally.

Yes, so to kick things off, the chapter starts with this definition of emerging adulthood by Geoffrey Arnett, and he kind of pins it down as this period, usually between 18 and 25, where it's all about exploring and figuring out who you are.

Identity formation is a big task of this developmental period.

Yeah, exactly.

It makes sense, right?

Yeah.

But it makes you wonder,

is this just happening in certain cultures, like what the chapter calls weird societies,

Western -educated, industrialized, rich, democratic?

That's a great question, and the short answer is no, it's not just limited to those weird societies.

Research suggests that while there might be some variations, you know, kind of culturally,

emerging adulthood is becoming a more global phenomenon.

Interesting.

Yeah, there's data on marriage and childbearing happening later, pretty much across the board.

Okay, so even if the details are different, this whole idea of delaying traditional adulthood,

it's something that tons of young people are experiencing.

Pretty much across the world.

That's pretty wild.

So, okay, let's move on to something that like really stood out to me in this chapter, which is just like the sheer physical strength of emerging adults.

Yeah.

Like the chapter practically gushes about it.

They're at their peak.

It's like their bodies are in their prime.

Yeah.

Muscles, organs, everything.

It's all top notch.

And they talk about this thing called organ reserve.

Oh yeah, that's a great way to think about it.

Like it's your body's backup generator just waiting to kick in.

Yeah, if you need it, it's there.

Which I guess is why like, you know, a 20 -year -old can like pull an all -nighter.

Or you know, maybe not eat the healthiest for a few days.

Right.

Maybe party a little too hard.

Sure.

And then bounce back like it's nothing.

Exactly.

I mean, it's pretty amazing.

It's remarkable what the body can do at that age.

Like the book even says that like a 20 -year -old could recover from a heat stroke in a way that like an older adult just couldn't.

Their bodies are just more resilient.

It's mind -blowing.

It is.

And you know, it speaks to that concept of homeostasis.

Like the body's ability to maintain balance, it's really at its peak during this stage.

So it's like they can push their bodies to the limit.

To a certain extent, yeah.

But there's a catch, right?

Well, there's always a catch, right?

Because the chapter also brought up this idea of allostatic load, which sounds kind of scary.

Well, it can be.

It's essentially the wear and tear on your body from like stress and you know, those not so healthy choices.

So even though they seem invincible all those late nights and you know, maybe not the best diet.

It can catch up to you eventually.

Right.

So basically all that stuff can have consequences down the road.

Exactly.

And you know what's interesting?

There's this long -term study called Cardia.

And they found a direct link between diet and exercise in early adulthood and overall health in middle age.

So what you do now really does matter.

It does.

It lays the foundation for your future health.

Okay, well that's something to think about.

Definitely food for thought.

All right, let's move on to something a little lighter.

Okay.

Ah, yes.

Like the chapter goes on and on about how good -looking emerging adults are.

Well, it's true.

They tend to be at their physical peak.

With their like perfect skin and everything.

Yeah, their skin is usually pretty clear at that age.

So the book is like really emphasizing how much emerging adults care about how they look.

Well, it makes sense from an evolutionary perspective.

Okay, how so?

You know, this is the time when finding a partner is a priority and attractiveness plays a role in that.

So it's like being attractive can help you succeed in life.

In a way, yes, it can influence things like finding a mate, even getting a job.

Seriously.

Yeah, the book even mentioned a study that found attractive people are more likely to get hired.

Oh, come on.

That's not fair.

Well, it's not necessarily fair, but it is a reality.

So basically there's this pressure to like conform to certain beauty standards.

Especially during this phase of life.

It's a lot to deal with.

It is.

It's important to remember that beauty is subjective.

Right.

And self -esteem should be based on more than just looks.

Okay, good point.

All right, so where to next?

Well, the chapter also gets into, you know, more personal topic.

Okay, I'm intrigued.

Sex.

Ah, yes.

A big part of emerging adulthood.

Yeah, so apparently emerging adults are like at their peak fertility.

Biologically speaking, yes.

And they've got these strong sexual drives.

It's like nature's way of saying go forth and multiply.

But here's the thing.

What's that?

Like society's expectations have totally changed.

That's true.

Like way fewer emerging adults are having kids now.

Right, and marriage is happening much later.

So it's like this weird push and pull.

Yeah, between biology and social norms.

Like on the one hand, their bodies are like ready to go.

Right.

But on the other hand, society's like, hold up, there's more to life first.

Yeah, it's a fascinating dynamic.

And thankfully we have contraception.

Exactly.

Which allows individuals to have more control.

Over when they start a family.

Right, if they choose to have one at all.

Okay, so speaking of changing norms,

the chapter also talks about how attitudes towards pre -marital sex have evolved.

Like it's not this big taboo thing anymore.

Definitely not like it used to be.

Like the data shows this clear generational shift.

Younger generations are generally much more accepting.

Which makes you think about, you know,

how our own views have been shaped.

By the times we grew up in, for sure.

But even with this growing acceptance,

the chapter pointed out that double standards still exist.

Sadly, that's true.

Like men and women are still often judged differently.

For the same sexual behaviors.

It's frustrating.

It is.

There's still a lot of work to do in terms of achieving equality.

Okay, well on a more serious note, the chapter also brought up the rise of STIs among emerging adults.

Yeah, that's a major concern.

Which is scary.

It is.

And, you know, globalization and increased travel have definitely contributed to the spread.

And unfortunately, this age group often like delays seeking medical help.

Right.

Which can make things worse.

It can.

And it can have serious consequences.

Like the book even mentions congenital syphilis.

Oh, right.

Which can have devastating effects on newborns.

It's a stark reminder of just how important prevention is.

Absolutely.

And early intervention, too.

And speaking of prevention,

the chapter highlighted the success of the HPV vaccination program in Australia.

Oh, yeah.

That's a great example.

Like it's significantly reduced cancer rates.

It's a powerful example of how public health initiatives can really protect young people.

Okay, so on a related note,

the chapter also discussed unwanted pregnancies.

And the challenges emerging adults face with contraception.

Yeah, access and utilization are still issues.

Like it can be tough for them to get and use effective contraception.

Right.

There are barriers like cost and, you know, sometimes just a lack of awareness.

The book talked about a study in Finland.

Oh, yeah.

Where they offered free contraception.

And it led to a huge decrease in unwanted pregnancies.

Which makes you wonder why we don't see more programs like that.

Yeah, it's a complex issue, but it definitely highlights the need for better support and education.

All right, we're ready for another topic change.

Let's talk about something that practically defines emerging adulthood risk taking.

Oh, yeah.

They love to push the limits.

Like it's almost like a rite of passage.

In a way it is.

They're exploring their boundaries and testing their limits.

So why is that?

Well, there are a few reasons.

Okay, I'm listening.

One big one is brain development.

Ah, so their brains are still cooking.

Yeah, the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for things like planning decision making and impulse control.

Okay.

It's still maturing during this stage.

So that explains why they sometimes make impulsive decisions?

It's part of it, but it's not the whole story.

Okay, so what else is going on?

Well, at the same time, their brains are also developing in other areas like abstract reasoning and perspective taking.

It's this kind of balancing act between these developing impulse control mechanisms.

And their newfound ability to think more abstractly.

Exactly.

And of course, emotions, social pressures, and personality traits all play a role too.

So it's not just about their brains?

No, it's a complex interplay of factors.

So are there any benefits to this whole risk taking thing?

Oh, definitely.

Okay, tell me more.

Well, you know, risk taking can be a way to learn and grow.

It can help you discover your strengths and limitations.

And it can also be fun.

Oh, absolutely.

There's a reason why so many emerging adults are drawn to things like extreme sports.

Right, or traveling to new places.

Or, you know, starting their own businesses.

It's not all bad.

Not at all.

But of course, there are risks involved.

Okay, well, let's talk about the downside of risk taking.

Okay, so,

you know, as much as risk taking can be exciting and even beneficial,

it can also have some pretty serious consequences.

Okay.

Well, for one thing, emerging adulthood is when we see a spike in accidents and injuries.

The book calls it the accident bump.

Which is kind of a grim name.

It is, but it reflects the reality that, you know, accidents are the leading cause of death among emerging adults.

And it's not just accidents?

No suicide.

And homicide rates are also higher during this stage.

Wow, that's heavy.

It is.

And it highlights the importance of, you know, supporting emerging adults.

And helping them make safer choices.

Exactly.

So what about drug abuse?

Ah, yes.

Another big issue during the stage.

Like, why are emerging adults so susceptible to it?

Well, for one thing, their brains are still developing.

Right, so that whole impulse control thing again.

Exactly.

And, you know, they're also more likely to experiment and take risks.

And the chapter mentioned that this is like the peak age for drug use.

Yes, statistically speaking, that's true.

And it's not just trying drugs.

No, binge drinking is also a problem.

Especially among college students.

Right.

Oh.

So we've talked about a lot of heavy stuff.

We have.

But it's important to remember that emerging adulthood is also a time of incredible growth and opportunity.

It is.

It's a time for exploration, self -discovery, and building a foundation for the future.

So it's not all doom and gloom.

Not at all.

It's a time of both challenges and triumphs.

And with the right support.

And a little bit of luck.

Emerging adults can navigate this stage and emerge as confident and capable adults.

Well said.

Thank you.

All right.

So I think that's a good place to wrap up part one.

Sounds good.

We'll pick up next time with a deeper dive into the cognitive and social development of emerging adults.

Looking forward to it.

See you then.

Bye.

All right.

So last time we were talking all about, you know, the physical stuff going on in emerging adulthood.

Right.

Like how their bodies are basically superhuman.

And we also touched on like the changing landscape of sex and relationships.

And how much they love to push boundaries.

Yeah.

All that risk taking.

So now I think it's time to, you know, go beyond those ripped jeans and late night adventures.

Okay.

And dive into what's happening inside their heads.

I like it.

Let's get inside their minds.

Yeah.

Like how is their thinking evolving during this period?

Yeah.

It's a really fascinating time for cognitive development.

Okay.

So the chapter talks about how emerging adulthood is when people start to develop like more sophisticated ways of thinking,

reasoning, problem solving.

It's like their brains are getting a major upgrade.

Yeah.

Makes sense, right?

Like they're moving away from those black and white views of adolescence.

And into something more nuanced.

Yeah.

Remember Jean Piaget's stages of cognitive development?

Oh, yeah.

He put adolescence in that formal operational stage.

Right.

Where they can think abstractly and hypothetically.

But he also suggested that adults move beyond that.

Yes.

Into what he called post -formal thought.

Post -formal thought.

It sounds fancy, right?

It does sound very academic.

That it basically means a more flexible and practical way of thinking.

Okay.

It's about recognizing that there isn't always one right answer.

And that knowledge can be subjective.

So like embracing the gray areas.

Exactly.

It's about being able to hold multiple perspectives at the same time.

So instead of just accepting things at face value, they're starting to question things,

challenge the status quo, think critically.

Exactly.

And that's crucial for navigating the complexities of adulthood.

Right.

Because things are rarely black and white out there in the real world.

Yeah.

You need that cognitive flexibility to adapt to new situations, solve problems.

Make those tough decisions.

Oh, all of that.

And the chapter says that this shift to post -formal thought isn't just about getting older.

Right.

It's also influenced by experiences.

Like education and social interaction.

That's exactly.

So it's not just about blowing out birthday candles.

It's about actively engaging with the world.

Yeah.

Going to college, traveling, meeting new people, all of that contributes to a more well -rounded way of thinking.

But hold on a sec.

What about the role of culture in all of this?

Ah, yes.

That's a great point.

Because different cultures value different types of thinking.

Yeah, absolutely.

Some prioritize critical thinking and individual expression.

While others might emphasize conformity and respect for authority.

Right.

So it's not like a one -size -fits -all approach to cognitive development.

No.

It's a fascinating interplay of biology,

social experiences, and cultural influences.

Okay, so I'm ready to tackle the next big topic.

What's that?

Moral development.

Oh yeah, more maze.

Because remember Lawrence Kohlberg?

Of course, his stages of moral development.

Yeah, he talked about how like the reasons we give for making moral decisions.

They change over time.

So like we start with pre -conventional morality.

Where it's all about avoiding punishment and getting rewards.

Right, like very basic stuff.

Then we move into conventional morality.

Which is about following rules and social norms.

Basically being a good citizen.

I know, there's the final stage.

Post -conventional morality.

Where things get really interesting.

Yeah, this is where people start thinking about universal ethical principles.

Like the greater good.

Even if it means going against the rules.

Wow, so it's like developing your own internal compass?

Exactly, not just blindly following what you've been told.

Okay, so where do emerging adults fit into all of this?

Well the chapter suggests that they're kind of in this transition phase.

Between conventional and post -conventional morality.

Yeah, they're starting to question the absoluteness of rules.

And thinking about the reasons behind them.

Exactly, like is this rule fair?

Does it make sense in all situations?

Yeah, right, they're developing their own sense of what's right and wrong.

But the chapter also mentioned Carol Gilligan's work.

Oh yes, Gilligan challenged Kohlberg's theory a bit.

How so?

Well she argued that his stages were biased towards a male perspective.

She proposed that women often approach moral dilemmas with a different focus.

On caring in relationships?

Emphasizing empathy and responsibility towards others.

Which makes sense.

It does, it adds another layer to the discussion of moral development.

So it's not just about justice and fairness, like Kohlberg emphasized.

It's also about compassion and connection.

Right.

And recognizing the importance of relationships.

Okay, well let's shift gears a bit and talk about something a little more practical.

Okay, sure.

Decision making.

Oh yeah, that's a big one.

Because emerging adults are facing a ton of choices.

They are decisions about education careers, relationships.

It can be overwhelming.

It can, and their decision -making abilities are still developing.

But they are learning.

Of course they are, they're getting better at weighing options.

Assessing risks and benefits.

And considering long -term consequences.

But remember we talked about the prefrontal cortex still developing.

Ah yes, that part of the brain that's crucial for planning and impulse control.

So are they at a disadvantage when it comes to decision making?

Well it's not that simple.

Okay.

While their impulse control might be a work in progress, they're also developing other cognitive skills.

Like abstract reasoning and perspective taking.

Exactly, and those skills can actually help them make better decisions.

So it's like this balancing act.

Yeah, between those developing impulse control mechanisms.

And their newfound ability to think more flexibly.

Right.

And we can't forget about the role of emotions, social pressures, and personality traits.

So it's not always about logic.

No, sometimes our gut feelings or what our friends think can sway our choices.

That's true.

Which brings us to the social context of emerging adulthood.

Like how being surrounded by friends and new relationships and all that influences their thinking.

Okay, so the chapter emphasizes how important social experiences are for cognitive development.

They're exposed to different viewpoints.

Which can challenge their beliefs.

And broaden their understanding of the world.

It's like their social lives are a crash course in critical thinking.

You could say that, and they're also constantly practicing their decision -making skills.

Figuring out who to be friends with, who to date.

How to manage their time and money.

It's like real -world adulting 101.

It is, and the chapter also highlights the importance of mentors during this stage.

Mentors?

Yeah, you know, like having someone who can offer guidance and support.

Like a seasoned guide in this new and unfamiliar world.

Exactly.

Mentors can provide valuable insights, different perspectives.

Help them think outside the box.

All of that.

So it's not just about figuring things out on your own.

No, it's about seeking out guidance and support from people who've been there before.

Okay, well speaking of figuring things out.

Yeah?

The chapter also talks about identity formation during this period.

Ah yes, the age -old question, who am I?

Right, and remember Eric Erikson.

And his theory of psychosocial development.

Yeah, he said the big crisis during adolescence and young adulthood is identity versus role confusion.

That struggle to figure out who you are, what you believe in, where you fit in.

And the chapter suggests that emerging adulthood is like a time of intense exploration in this area.

They're experimenting with different roles, values, beliefs, relationships.

Trying on different versions of themselves.

To see what feels right.

Which can be both exciting and confusing.

Absolutely.

But it's not just an internal process, right?

No, their identity is also shaped by their family background, cultural norms, personal experiences.

It's nature and nurture working together.

And the cool thing is it's an ongoing journey.

We don't just figure it all out in our 20s and that's it.

Exactly, we continue to evolve and redefine ourselves throughout our lives.

Which is actually pretty comforting.

It is, it means we're never really stuck.

We can always grow,

change, become more of who we want to be.

I love that.

Okay, so ready for one last mind -bending concept before we wrap up?

Hit me with it.

Okay, so we've covered the amazing physical stuff happening during emerging adulthood.

Right, their bodies are at their peak.

And we've delved into the whole cognitive development thing.

Those expanding minds.

But now I think it's time to talk about the emotional and social side of things.

Yeah, those messy wonderful relationships.

Because as emerging adults are becoming more independent.

They're also craving connection and support.

So like the chapter really emphasizes how important relationships are during this period.

Absolutely, they're crucial.

It's like they're building their own tribe while also trying to figure out who they are as individuals.

Yeah, it's a delicate balance.

So let's start with family.

Okay.

Because things are definitely changing on that front.

They are, those parent -child dynamics are shifting big time.

It's not just mom and dad calling the shots anymore.

Right, emerging adults are becoming more autonomous.

More independent.

The chapter calls it a renegotiation of those relationships.

It's like they're moving from a parent -child dynamic to more of an adult -to -adult one.

Which can be awesome, right?

It can lead to more autonomy, more honest conversations.

But I bet it also comes with some friction.

Oh yeah, for sure, as everyone adjusts to these new roles.

Some families navigate it smoothly.

Yeah.

But others, you know, might bump heads.

Right, over things like finances, lifestyle choices.

Just different expectations.

It's a reminder that every family is different.

And there's no one right way to handle these changes.

Okay, so let's move on to friendships.

Right.

Because the chapter really highlights how crucial those bonds become during this stage.

Yeah, friendships take on a whole new level of importance.

It's like they become this essential support system.

As you're venturing out into the world, trying new things, maybe making some mistakes along the way.

It's like having your own personal cheering squad.

Right, a group of people who get you and have your back no matter what.

But the chapter also points out that friendships during this period can be pretty fluid.

Oh yeah, people come and go.

As you move through college jobs, different cities.

It's a time of constant change, and those friendships often reflect that.

It's like you're constantly refining your social circle.

And figuring out what qualities you truly value in those close connections.

Okay, so are you ready to talk about love?

Bring it on!

Because this is the time when everyone's, you know, swiping right trying to figure out what they want in a partner.

Navigating the ups and downs of love and heartbreak.

Yeah, it's a roller coaster.

The chapter calls it a period of intense exploration and experimentation.

In the realm of love and intimacy.

Emerging adults are testing the waters with different relationship styles.

Trying to figure out what works for them.

And discovering their own needs and desires.

It's a lot of trial and error.

It is, but it's also about developing their capacity for intimacy.

Right, learning to be vulnerable.

Sharing their deepest thoughts and feelings.

It takes a certain level of emotional maturity.

Which you might not have had in those high school relationships.

Exactly, but the chapter also acknowledges that this is often a time of instability in relationships.

Yeah, because you're still figuring out your own life.

Right, so it's no surprise that relationships can be a bit messy too.

Breakups are bound to happen.

They are, it's part of the process.

But through those heartbreaks, emerging adults are learning valuable lessons.

About themselves and what they truly want in a partner.

Okay, so we can't forget about the role of culture in all of this.

Oh, right.

Different cultures have different ideas about love and relationships.

Different rules of the game.

Different expectations for dating courtship.

Even what defines a successful relationship.

It's a good reminder that there's no one right way to do things.

Okay, enough about matters of the heart.

Alright, what's next?

Let's talk about careers.

Ah, yes, the real world beckons.

Because for a lot of emerging adults,

this is when that pressure to choose a career path really kicks in.

That question of what are you doing with your life starts looming large.

And it could be super stressful.

It can be, but the chapter frames this period as a time of exploration and experimentation.

Okay.

It's about figuring out your passions and how to turn those into a fulfilling career.

So it's less about having it all figured out and more about trying different things.

Exactly.

Internships, volunteer gigs.

Seeing what sparks your interest.

But the chapter also acknowledges that the job market can be tough for emerging adults.

Yeah, they often lack experience.

And face a lot of competition.

It's not always easy to find that dream job.

Right, one that combines purpose, passion, and a decent paycheck.

It's a challenge, but it's also an opportunity.

To learn and grow and figure out what you really want.

And speaking of figuring things out.

Yeah.

The chapter also talks about how this is a time for developing your values and beliefs.

Like your personal philosophy.

What you stand for, what matters to you.

What kind of impact you want to make on the world.

It's about asking those big existential questions.

And this process can be really personal.

It might involve exploring different spiritual traditions.

Or engaging in social activism.

Or just reflecting on your own experiences.

It's all about figuring out what gives your life meaning and purpose.

Which is pretty awesome, even if it's a bit daunting at times.

It's a journey worth taking.

So to wrap up our deep dive into emerging adulthood.

Yeah.

It seems like this period is all about transformation.

In every sense of the word.

Physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.

They're pushing boundaries,

challenging norms, discovering who they are and what they want to do with their lives.

It's like this grand adventure.

With all its twists and turns.

And emerging adults are the intrepid explorers.

I like that analogy.

So thanks for joining us on this deep dive into emerging adulthood.

Yeah, it's been a fascinating journey.

Until next time, keep those minds curious and those hearts open.

See you later.