Pulling Anchor, Setting Sail Flashcards
Why do many young adults struggle to afford major expenses like housing or medical insurance?
Many young adults struggle because typical starting wages are low, and they often have significant student loan debt.
Why has the transition from adolescence to adulthood become more complex and prolonged?
The transition is now longer and more fragmented due to economic and psychological factors, making early independence less feasible.
How has the role of psychologists changed in response to the extended transition to adulthood?
Psychologists must broaden their approaches to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of modern young adulthood.
Why do some young adults ‘boomerang’ back to their parents’ homes?
They may be unable to find adequate employment, afford living expenses, or need to save money for further education or training.
What challenge do parents of modern young adults face?
They must balance planning for their future while still supporting their children and often caring for aging parents.
How does family climate affect a child’s ability to achieve autonomy?
Family climate has a greater impact on self-reliance than internal factors like temperament or intelligence.
What are centripetal forces in a family?
Centripetal forces foster connectedness, loyalty, and tradition, helping maintain family continuity.
What are centrifugal forces in a family?
Centrifugal forces encourage freedom, initiative, and innovation, allowing young adults to leave and adapt to the world.
What happens when centripetal and centrifugal forces are imbalanced?
An imbalance can hinder healthy development and make it difficult for young adults to transition to independence.
What characterizes families dominated by centripetal forces?
Young adults feel loyalty-bound to stay, fearing that leaving home would betray their parents.
What characterizes families dominated by centrifugal forces?
Young adults feel prematurely pushed out, lacking the psychological support needed for independence.
What is a ‘Mission Impossible’ family?
A family where young adults receive conflicting parental expectations, making it difficult to move forward.
How do young adults in overly centripetal families struggle with independence?
They may sabotage their own growth to avoid feeling like they are betraying their family.
How do young adults in overly centrifugal families struggle with independence?
They may feel unprepared and resist leaving or make ill-fated attempts at independence.
How do ‘Mission Impossible’ families create barriers to independence?
Young adults receive unrealistic or contradictory expectations that prevent them from following their own path.
