The formal and informal names for age 20
While a 20-year-old is legally an adult in many parts of the world, this age is not always accompanied by full psychological or social maturity. The period encompassing age 20 is commonly referred to in a few ways, depending on the context. Scientifically, it falls under 'early adulthood' and the more recent, refined category of 'emerging adulthood.' Colloquially, people simply call it the twenties or being 'a twenty-something.' Each term carries a slightly different nuance, reflecting the complex, transitional nature of this life stage.
What is emerging adulthood?
Emerging adulthood, a concept proposed by developmental psychologist Jeffrey Arnett, specifically addresses the unique period from the late teens through the mid-to-late twenties. In this phase, individuals in modern, post-industrial societies are no longer adolescents but have not yet fully committed to the long-term, stable roles of traditional adulthood, such as a permanent career, marriage, or parenthood. It is characterized by several key features:
- Identity exploration: Young people explore various life possibilities in love, work, and worldview. This is a time for self-discovery and answering fundamental questions about who they are and what they want to be.
- Instability: Emerging adults often experience high residential instability, moving frequently for education, work, or relationships. Career paths and relationship statuses can also change frequently during this time.
- Self-focused: Without the obligations of family or a permanent career, emerging adults have a unique opportunity to focus on themselves. This is often viewed as a temporary phase of life before taking on more responsibilities.
- Feeling 'in-between': Many 20-year-olds feel they are neither an adolescent nor a full-fledged adult. They have adult responsibilities but may still feel like they are transitioning and learning what it means to be an adult.
- An age of possibilities: For many, this period is marked by a sense of great optimism and hope for the future. They have not yet made final choices and can envision multiple potential paths for their lives.
Early adulthood vs. emerging adulthood
While the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they represent different perspectives on the same age range. It is useful to understand their distinctions.
| Feature | Early Adulthood | Emerging Adulthood |
|---|---|---|
| Age Range | Typically 20-40 years old. | Late teens through the twenties (approx. 18-29). |
| Focus | Peak physiological health and energy, establishment of long-term goals, and integration into society. | Period of transition, exploration, and instability. |
| Cultural Context | Traditional, broader life stage where milestones were often met earlier. | Modern, post-industrial cultural phenomenon where the transition to adulthood is delayed. |
| Experience | Considered the time of settling down and committing to major life roles. | Seen as a unique, temporary life stage between adolescence and full adulthood. |
| Milestones | Historically associated with marriage, career stability, and family formation. | Characterized by a delay in achieving traditional milestones. |
Psychological and biological development at 20
At age 20, the human brain is still developing. Neuroscientific research suggests that the prefrontal cortex, responsible for complex cognitive behavior, decision-making, and social interaction, does not fully mature until around age 25. This continued development explains some of the differences in behavior and decision-making between someone in their early twenties and a fully mature adult. As a result, the risk-taking behavior common in emerging adulthood is a function of both psychological and biological factors.
Social and cultural factors
In many modern societies, social and cultural shifts have contributed to the expansion of this transitional period. Increased access to higher education, the changing nature of the job market, and evolving social norms around marriage and family have all contributed to a later and less linear path to adulthood compared to previous generations. This delay is not a sign of immaturity but rather a reflection of broader societal changes that allow for a longer period of exploration before settling into adult roles. This is a critical context for anyone interested in healthy aging, as the foundations for healthy adult life are established during this dynamic time. For further information on human development, the American Psychological Association provides numerous resources on various life stages, including young adulthood.
The importance of healthy habits in early adulthood
For those interested in healthy aging, the habits formed at age 20 are crucial. This period is a foundation for lifelong health. For instance, while young adults are often at their physiological peak, it's also a high-risk time for issues like substance abuse, which can have long-term consequences. Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices—such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good mental health practices—in one's twenties can significantly impact their well-being in middle and late adulthood. Addressing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression is also vital, as rates can be high during this time of significant change and stress. The choices made during these formative years set the trajectory for how a person will navigate the challenges and opportunities of a longer, healthier life.
Setting the stage for later life
The choices and explorations of a 20-year-old reverberate throughout their entire life. Whether it's a career path that offers both financial stability and personal fulfillment, forming intimate relationships that offer strong social support, or establishing a routine of physical activity, these decisions lay the groundwork for a successful and healthy later life. The financial literacy gained, the emotional resilience developed through challenges, and the life experiences accumulated all contribute to the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling aging process. Therefore, understanding this period is not just about a single age but about appreciating a pivotal chapter in the entire story of human life.
