Psychology Press

About the Book

Recent social and economic changes in the Western hemisphere have contributed to a new life stage that some researchers and writers have labeled ‘Emerging Adulthood’. This stage is characterized by the postponement of commitments to stable romantic relationships, career and lifestyle, and creates opportunities for exploration, instability, self-focus and feelings of being ‘in-between’ adolescence and adulthood in young people.

Across the Divide critically examines young peoples’ transitions from adolescence to early adulthood and describes the varying experiences of growing towards adulthood across both the USA and Europe. The book addresses different theoretical approaches to understanding this phase of the lifespan and concludes by integrating perspectives to offer an interactive, inter-disciplinary framework from which future research and policy making can develop.

Providing critical commentaries and theoretical debates amongst the co-authors, Across the Divide reflects and demonstrates the new paradigm shift in developmental psychology in moving away from age-defined stages to a more systemic, inter-disciplinary approach. As such this book will be of interest not only to those involved in youth research but also psychology, sociology, social work and education.