ABSTRACT
Adulthood begins roughly in the third decade of life and stretches until late adulthood. This chapter focuses on the experiences of those in young adulthood and middle adulthood. In emerging adulthood, Arnett argues there is a great amount of instability and variability as individuals delay responsibilities and prepare themselves for careers, long-term relationships, and parenthood. A number of physical changes occur during adulthood although the rate and timing of physical changes will depend on psychological and environmental factors. Most individuals in adulthood continue to possess good memory skills. Middle-aged adults tend to perform somewhat between younger adults and older adults on memory skills tests, with younger adults performing the best. For most individuals who eventually parent, the transition to becoming a parent occurs in adulthood. For some adults the decision to parent is a conscious choice. Parenthood can be a rewarding experience which encourages personal growth and development.
