Zastrow et al.’s classification of young and/or middle adulthood in the context of your own experience

When did you become an adult? Was it the day you turned 18, the day you graduated high school, or the day you moved out of your parents’ or caregivers’ home? The authors of your course text, Zastrow et al., use the term young adulthood for ages 18 to 30, and middle adulthood for ages 30 to 65.
Are these young and middle adulthood classifications useful? How do they compare to your own unique experience at these life stages? Indeed, your description of what it means to be an adult and how and when an adolescent transitions into adulthood may differ from that of Zastrow et al.—and from your colleagues.
For this Discussion, you analyze the author’s classifications of young and middle adulthood and consider how diversity might influence the common experience.

• Review the assigned chapter of the course text, paying close attention to Zastrow et al.’s classifications of young and middle adulthood. Reflect on your own experiences in these time periods and consider the extent to which Zastrow et al.’s description applies to

Analyze Zastrow et al.’s classification of young and/or middle adulthood in the context of your own experience. How does the classification align with your own development during this time period? If your experience is different, why might this be? In particular, consider how the diverse aspects of your identity might impact your experience.

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Zastrow et al. classify young adulthood as ages 18 to 30 and middle adulthood as ages 30 to 65. While this provides a general framework, it’s important to consider how individual experiences and diverse identities can influence the transition into and experiences of adulthood.

My Perspective:

According to Zastrow et al.’s definition, I am currently in young adulthood. Reflecting on their descriptions, here’s how my experience aligns and diverges:

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Alignments:

  • Exploration and Identity Formation: This stage resonates with my experience of exploring career options, relationships, and personal values.
  • Focus on Independence: Gaining independence from parents and establishing my own life is a significant aspect of this period for me.

Divergences:

  • Financial Independence: Zastrow et al. suggest financial independence is a hallmark of young adulthood. However, due to factors like student loan debt, achieving complete financial independence might take longer than expected.

Impact of Diversity:

My experience may differ from others due to various factors:

  • Socioeconomic Background: Individuals from lower-income families might achieve financial independence later, impacting their transition into adulthood.
  • Cultural Background: Cultural expectations surrounding family obligations and living arrangements might influence the pace of achieving independence.
  • Race and Gender: Racial and gender inequalities can create additional challenges in areas like employment and education, impacting the timeline of adulthood milestones.

Beyond Age-Based Definitions:

Perhaps a more nuanced approach to defining adulthood would consider factors like:

  • Taking on adult responsibilities: Financial independence, caring for dependents, or managing a household.
  • Developing a sense of self: Having a clear sense of identity, values, and goals.
  • Building social connections: Establishing healthy relationships and a sense of belonging.

Conclusion:

Zastrow et al.’s classifications offer a starting point, but they don’t capture the full picture. The experience of adulthood is shaped by diverse identities and life circumstances. A more holistic approach that considers individual journeys might be more insightful.

 

 

 

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