"Emerging Adulthood: The Winding Road from the Late Teens Through the Twenties" (Jeffrey Jensen Arnett)

"Emerging Adulthood" by Jeffrey Jensen Arnett explores a developmental stage from late teens to mid-twenties, characterized by exploration and self-discovery. During this time, individuals often experiment with careers, relationships, and identity but delay traditional adulthood responsibilities like marriage and stable employment. Arnett identifies it as a distinct phase marked by uncertainty, possibility, and gradual transition rather than a straightforward progression into adulthood. This period reflects changing social, economic, and cultural dynamics, offering young people space to define their paths while facing unique challenges and opportunities before settling into full adult roles.