Question

question 16
emerging adulthood, as defined by jeffrey arnett, is marked by ______.

• instability and exploration
• stability and growth
• intimacy and investment
• permanence and responsibility

Explanation:

Identify the core developmental concept

The question asks about the characteristics of "emerging adulthood" as defined by developmental psychologist Jeffrey Arnett. This relates to the broader study of Developmental Stages in psychology.

Analyze Jeffrey Arnett's theory

Jeffrey Arnett proposed "emerging adulthood" as a distinct developmental period spanning from the late teens through the twenties (roughly ages 18–29). He identified five key features of this stage:

1. Identity exploration (trying out various possibilities in love and work)
2. Instability (frequent changes in residence, jobs, and relationships)
3. Self-focus (deciding what they want before making long-term commitments)
4. Feeling in-between (not quite an adolescent, but not fully an adult)
5. Possibilities/Optimism (unprecedented opportunity to transform their lives)

Evaluate the given options

• instability and exploration: This directly aligns with two of Arnett's core features (instability and identity exploration).
• stability and growth: This is incorrect because emerging adulthood is characterized by high instability rather than stability.
• intimacy and investment: While intimacy is explored, "investment" and stable commitments are more characteristic of established young adulthood.
• permanence and responsibility: This describes established adulthood rather than the fluid, transitional phase of emerging adulthood.

Select the correct option

Based on Arnett's framework, the defining characteristics among the choices are instability and exploration.

Answer:

• instability and exploration (Correct answer)
• stability and growth
• intimacy and investment
• permanence and responsibility