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Fuat AYDOĞDU

Fuat AYDOĞDU

Expert Psychological Counselor

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A Developmental Crisis in Transition to Adulthood: Quarter-Life Crisis

Figen Çok, Hatice Kübra Özdoğan, Kübra Berber, Zehra Yeler

Review Volume 5 Issue 2 30 June 2023 Pages 898-920 10.47793/hp.1253697
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Abstract

Theories and approaches about the transition to adulthood have been updated with time and conditions. In the twenty-first century, the definition of adulthood has evolved to reflect individuals’ subjective perceptions while also meeting traditional adulthood markers. The significant delay in the timing of attaining adult roles in career, education, and romantic relationships may indicate that transition to adulthood is now a longer and more complex period. This period is widely accepted as emerging adulthood. The concept of emerging adulthood is used for individuals who do not call themselves an adult despite the end of adolescence, and who continue to explore their identity by trying many possibilities. This life stage is also full of uncertainty and instability due to its erratic nature. Individuals may experience a developmental crisis when they are unable to cope with the complexity of the numerous new roles they must assume in order to survive. Quarter-life crisis refers to difficult life events in relationships, career, and finance during the transition to adulthood. Between emerging adulthood and young adulthood, individuals may get "locked into" adult positions they no longer want to be in, or they may be "locked out" of adult roles they desire to achieve. Quarter-life crisis emerges as an important notion in comprehending the challenging nature and consequences of the transition to adulthood. This study reviews the literature on quarter-life crisis within psychological and sociological contexts in order to shed light on experiences during the transition to adulthood.

Keywords

transition to adulthood emerging adulthood developmental crisis quarter life crisis
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