Emerging into adulthood

Current theories regarding the development of young adults suggest that college-aged students become increasingly independent and have few if any responsibilities (Arnett, 2001). Our research suggests that this is a time in young people’s lives when being able to contribute to family and community comes to the forefront.

These social responsibilities are integral components of young adult identities, particularly for immigrant-origin students (Katsiaficas, 2017). This engagement with family and community embodies deeply held values of “collective contribution,” reciprocal contribution between individuals, their families and communities (Katsiaficas, et al., 2016; 2018). This type of engagement is the hallmark of this period of life for many of the emerging adults we work with.