Emerging Adulthood (18-25 years)

Question 1

When does emerging adulthood occur?

Answer 1

Period between the late teens and early twenties (ages 18-25)
Some researchers have included up to the age of 29

Question 2

What are the main human developmental stages?

Answer 2

Infancy
Childhood 
Adolescence 
Emerging Adulthood
Adulthood

Question 3

Describe the social changes leading to recognizing emerging adulthood.

Answer 3

Later ages of marriage & parenthood 
Longer, widespread education
Birth control = fewer children 
Tolerance of premarital sexuality, cohabitation 
Changes in gender roles attitudes

Question 4

What causes emerging adulthood to be different for different individuals?

Answer 4

Cultural standards vary

Parents may support children financially for longer

Question 5

What are the five features of emerging adulthood?

Answer 5

Identity Explorations 
Instability 
Self-focus 
Feeling in-between 
Possibilities

Question 6

What are the physical changes of emerging adulthood?

Answer 6

Period of peak physical functioning
VO2 peaks in early 20s
Reaction, grip strength & bone density at its peak
Least susceptibility to physical illness
BUT LIFESTYLE ENCOURAGES POOR NUTRITION, HIGH STRESS & LACK OF SLEEP

Question 7

What are the key steps important in sleep patterns and deficits?

Answer 7

Wake up at same time each day 
Regular exercise
Afternoon naps
Limit caffeine intake
Avoid excessive alcohol intake

Question 8

What are the common specific mental disorders in emerging adulthood?

Answer 8

Substance use disorders 
Mood disorders (MDD) 
Anxiety disorders (social/specific phobia)

Question 9

List the behavioural signs to watch out for.

Answer 9

Major changes in behaviour or personality.
Irritability, moodiness, grumpiness
Frequent anger or aggression 
Risky behaviours 
Difficulties with sleep 
Avoidance & withdrawal from others 
Self harm/suicidal thoughts

Question 10

What are examples of risky behaviours?

Answer 10

Binge drinking, use of drugs, cigarette smoking, causal sex, excessive social media use

Question 11

Why are risky behaviours concerning?

Answer 11

The consequences of risky behaviours may be immediate and long term.

Question 12

What are the hazards of drinking?

Answer 12

Road deaths, traffic accidents, increased assaults, poor mental health outcomes, accidental injuries, unwanted sex

Question 13

What are the consequences of heavy drinking on the brain?

Answer 13

Long term problems in memory function, attention, visuospatial skills, executive function (planning, abstract reasoning, goal-directed behaviour)

Question 14

What are some medical conditions linked to the use of marijuana?

Answer 14

Cognitive impairment
Psychosis
Addiction

Question 15

What are the general principles for treating patients who use marijuana?

Answer 15

Marijuana related questions with each patient encounter
Remember drug can take over rewards and motivation (dopamine release)
No moral criticism/shaming
Evaluate need for psychoeducation
Include family members for evaluation and monitoring
Motivational, cognitive-behavioural & contingency management techniques

Question 16

What are the pros of social media?

Answer 16

Connecting worldwide
Finding a tribe 
Expanding passions and interests
Access to varying viewpoints 
Access helpful material

Question 17

List the cons of social media.

Answer 17

Increasing toxicity and anonymous bullying
Impacts mental health/sleep
Eco-chambers (people always agreeing with individual)
Addiction/overuse
Access potentially harmful content

Question 18

How does social media use affect your health?

Answer 18

Physical health -> less active, skip meals, sedentary in chair
Mental health -> envy, resentment, lower self esteem, self doubt/loathing
Social media usage is correlated to mental illnesses