The young adult’s developmental pathway is a stage of life that includes the challenges of independence, the reward for achievement, and the endurance of crises (Nagy, 2013, p. 422.) This essay will describe and discuss the physical, cognitive and psychosocial characteristics of the young adulthood lifespan stage. Two theorists that relate their developmental research to this life span, Erikson and Piaget, are described and the discussion of two health related behaviours applicable to the young adult.
In young adulthood, physical development and abilities are at their peak between the ages of 20-30 years. Not only is peak physical performance obtained during this time but an indication of decline is also apparent. As more is learnt about …show more content…
Arnett (as citied in Berger, 2011, p. 519) noted that the establishment of an employment identity, and the recognition of the requirement for this, is part of increasing maturity for some emerging young adults. Polan and Taylor (2015, p. 174) maintain that work is one of the dominant social roles of adulthood and that for some individuals it can represent status and respect. A sense of identity can be affected due to the judgement of employment selection and earning capacity, by one’s peers. Additionally, work is important to young adults as it can help define individuality by enhancing self-worth and providing inspiration.
Berk (2014), establishes that finding a life partner is expressed as a considerable milestone of young adulthood. An emotional bond must be established and maintained over time, although the need for intimacy can be fulfilled through mutually rewarding relationships with friends, family members and co-workers. The formation of a mutually satisfying close relationship can be a challenge and the maintenance of intimacy in the relationship requires that both partners’ interests and values are considered (Berk, 2014, p. …show more content…
426). A significant health issue amongst tertiary students in both New Zealand and Australia has been identified as binge drinking. Students in their early 20’s were more likely to falter in their studies and to drink and drive. The level of alcohol consumption at one campus was shown to be above the national guidelines for safe consumption. Also noted was that higher levels of alcohol use in early adulthood were linked to increased rates of sexual risk taking, including unprotected sex and sexual assault. (Santrock, 2014, p.
In young adulthood, physical development and abilities are at their peak between the ages of 20-30 years. Not only is peak physical performance obtained during this time but an indication of decline is also apparent. As more is learnt about …show more content…
Arnett (as citied in Berger, 2011, p. 519) noted that the establishment of an employment identity, and the recognition of the requirement for this, is part of increasing maturity for some emerging young adults. Polan and Taylor (2015, p. 174) maintain that work is one of the dominant social roles of adulthood and that for some individuals it can represent status and respect. A sense of identity can be affected due to the judgement of employment selection and earning capacity, by one’s peers. Additionally, work is important to young adults as it can help define individuality by enhancing self-worth and providing inspiration.
Berk (2014), establishes that finding a life partner is expressed as a considerable milestone of young adulthood. An emotional bond must be established and maintained over time, although the need for intimacy can be fulfilled through mutually rewarding relationships with friends, family members and co-workers. The formation of a mutually satisfying close relationship can be a challenge and the maintenance of intimacy in the relationship requires that both partners’ interests and values are considered (Berk, 2014, p. …show more content…
426). A significant health issue amongst tertiary students in both New Zealand and Australia has been identified as binge drinking. Students in their early 20’s were more likely to falter in their studies and to drink and drive. The level of alcohol consumption at one campus was shown to be above the national guidelines for safe consumption. Also noted was that higher levels of alcohol use in early adulthood were linked to increased rates of sexual risk taking, including unprotected sex and sexual assault. (Santrock, 2014, p.