Although chronological age may be used to describe the three stages of adulthood, chronological age is not always relevant. Young adulthood begins around the ages of 18 to 20 and ends between 35 and 40. This is a period when many adults are completing formal education and are leaving home. Young adulthood is often characterized by the willingness to take risks, expand knowledge, and increase creativity. These decisions involve struggles of identity, intimacy, and independence.
Young adults face several critical issues.
The first one involves creating a major life structure. With the many changes taking place in our society, young adults cannot simply travel in the footsteps of their elders. That path may not take them where they need to be. Young adults need persons who are willing to listen to their struggles and concerns and who are able to help them clarify their hopes, dreams, and faith. A second critical concern for young adults is the issue of intimacy versus isolation.