Reaching Emerging Adults

Emerging adulthood is more than just an age group — it’s a life stage full of change, growth, and discovery. Usually spanning the ages 18 to 24 (and sometimes up to the late 20s), this stage marks the move from being a teenager to becoming a full adult. During this time, people are figuring out who they are, what they believe, and what they want out of life. They may be starting college or jobs, entering serious relationships, and making decisions that shape their future. For many, it’s also the first-time managing money, credit cards, or student loan refunds — often without much financial guidance. This freedom can open the door to growth, but it can also lead to mistakes and risky choices.

Digital and Social Influences

Unlike previous generations, today’s emerging adults are growing up in a world that is constantly connected. Social media, online influencers, and digital communities shape how people see themselves and what they think success looks like. Risky behaviors such as heavy drinking, drug use, gambling, or speculative investing are often glamorized online, making them seem exciting or even normal. At the same time, traditional milestones like marriage, buying a home, or finding a stable career often come later than they used to. This mix of freedom, uncertainty, and nonstop digital influence means that decision-making can be swayed by peer pressure, family expectations, or targeted marketing.

Mental Health and Vulnerabilities

This life stage can also be tough emotionally. Many emerging adults struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or stress, made worse by financial worries, family conflict, academic or work pressures, and social comparisons on the internet. Some cope by turning to risky behaviors like gambling, substance use, or compulsive online activities. With gambling apps and websites always available, it’s easy for a casual game to turn into a harmful habit. For college students, the campus environment can make this worse, since gambling, drinking, and partying may feel like part of “normal” student life. With stress high and impulse control still developing, emerging adults are especially vulnerable to choices that can create long-term problems.

Family Systems

Family dynamics play a big role during these years. In some families, overprotective parenting can backfire by stopping young people from learning how to solve problems on their own. Emerging adults may have a harder time becoming independent and confident — sometimes called “failure to launch.” On the other hand, in families where there is conflict, instability, or stress, some emerging adults may turn to gambling or substance use as a way to escape. Both patterns show how family relationships can either support resilience or increase vulnerability during this stage of life.