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The views on what adulthood is and when it starts were never set in stone. Throughout the world, depending on the culture and time period, adulthood was perceived differently. In ancient and medieval times, children considered adults upon reaching 12 years of age. They were deemed capable of aiding their family on the fields and participating in hunts against dangerous animals. This was understandable since back then, the average life expectancy for the majority of the populace was around 40 years (Woodbury, 2014). Many things changed since then. With the advances in technology and medicine, life expectancy in most countries is way over 60 years. There were massive changes in many important aspects of our lives, from the foundations of our societies to gender roles. The concept of emerging adulthood is a relatively new one, but it reflects the current beliefs and opinions of many young men and women. The term represents a clash between the classical views regarding adulthood and the objective realities of the young adult population in many different countries around the world.
Emerging adulthood could be best described as a period of time dedicated to self-discovery. It typically starts from 18-20 years of age and follows all the way into the thirties. During this time period, the young adults are learning to be independent; they explore and experiment, trying to find themselves in studies, love, and work. It emphasizes personal growth, which is an important concept in a highly individualized western society (Arnett & Eisenberg, 2007). Due to globalization, the concept of individualism is spreading into eastern countries such as China and Japan. The eastern philosophies are emphasizing collectivism, and the seeds of individualism sown into it are causing a conflict between the younger westernized generation and the rest of the society.
In her study of the problems faced by single women in the Japanese society, Rosenberger (2007) concludes that “What emerging adulthood is, what adulthood is, and how the two to relate are moving targets in a constantly changing world” (95). By that, she meant that the concepts of adulthood and emerging adulthood would change with time. They would constantly be subjected to the opinions of people from different generations. As it often is with traditions and values, there would be some people promoting change and some who would desperately cling to the more familiar model.
I grew up in western society, which is rapidly outgrowing the old notions of what is perceived as adulthood. Despite that, the idea of spending a decade to discover oneself and grow as a person and as a professional is met with mild bemusement and reluctance. Those who do not marry before 30 are being mildly encouraged to “grow up” and start a family before it is too late. The idea of accountability and responsibility of a person is tied to the family institution. Having a family is supposed to serve as a testament to one’s integrity as an adult. I receive this feedback from time to time, from older family members or their friends. They are friendly about it. However, it shows that the stigma is still there, only in a much milder form.
In eastern societies, the conflict between the perceived notions of adulthood and emerging adulthood are more extreme. Their societies are based upon centuries-old traditions of familial rules and integrity, which is slow to adapt to the realities of a modern and globalized world. The government and the major companies are the ones dictating the morals of the Japanese society. Forming a stable family is considered one of the major staples of adulthood (Rosenberger, 2007). Being single for a long time is shunned in a Japan. This is especially true for women. The concept of emerging adulthood is new to the segregated Japanese society, and it is likely going to take some time before the notion becomes accepted as a norm.
In China, the situation is taking an interesting turn. The concept of emerging adulthood and self-discovery was introduced to the Chinese society not only through the increasingly competitive nature of its economy but also through government programs. In an effort to curb the country’s overpopulation, the government does not encourage young men and women to create families early, which leaves enough time for self-discovery through study and work. Views on maturity and adulthood differ between cities and the rural areas – the latter adhering to the old traditions (Nelson & Chen, 2007). It creates a clash similar to the one present in other countries. Still, the tendencies show that China is more likely to adopt the concept of emerging childhood than other eastern countries like Japan.
Returning to the Rosenberger’s quote about the relationship between the notions of adulthood and emerging adulthood, one has to remember that the notions of both would continue to remain fluid and unstable. The evolution of the public opinion is going to take place. Even the staunchest critics of the modern and childish lifestyle with no early marital commitments would still be considered incredibly liberal by the standards held two hundred years ago. The notion of emerging childhood is bound to become a norm, eventually. How soon it would happen depends on the historical, societal and economic factors unique to each country.
References
Arnett, J.J., & Eisenberg, N. (2007). Introduction to the Special Section: Emerging Adulthood Around the World. Society for Research in Child Development, 1(2), 66-67.
Nelson, L.J., & Chen, X. (2007). Emerging Adulthood in China: The Role of Social and Cultural Factors. Society for Research in Child Development, 1(2), 86-91.
Rosenberger, N. (2007). Rethinking Emerging Adulthood in Japan: Perspectives From Long-Term Single Women. Society for Research in Child Development, 1(2), 92-95.
Woodbury, S. (2014). Life Expectancy in Medieval Ages. Web.
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