Recent social changes have prolonged the transition to adulthood, creating the new period of emerging adulthood

Emerging adulthood is a new period of life that is distinct from both adolescence and young adulthood, and it is characterized by identity exploration, instability, self-focus, and the possibilities of change. This stage of life typically occurs between the ages of 18-29 and has been prolonged by recent social changes such as longer periods of education, delayed marriage, and postponed childbearing.