ABSTRACT
In two recent studies of young people (aged between 18 and 28 years) in the United States , Arnett ( 1997) found that the most commonly endorsed criteria for being an 'adult ' focused on aspects of individualism. For example, young people in these samples emphasized the importance of adults taking responsibility for the consequences of their actions, deciding on their own beliefs and values, and establishing a more equality-based relationship with their parents . Specific role transitions, such as entering the workforce, getting married, and becoming parents , were generally seen as less important markers of adulthood. However, as we have already noted, perceptions of adulthood depend in part on the culture being studied; even within a particular country, the importance of individualism during the transition to adulthood may depend on racial and ethnic group (Oyserman, Gant and Ager. 1995).
