What Does It Mean to be an Adult? Adulthood Markers in the Perspective of Emerging Adults

Abstract

Debate on the markers of adulthood reflects social and cultural changes shaping the socially constructed definitions of transition to the next life stages. These processes are particularly interesting in societies facing rapid changes in a relatively short period. The presented article explores definitions of adulthood of Polish emerging adults and relates dominating concepts to the classic Big Five. The study is based on a random, all-country sample of young adults (18–29 years old, n = 303). The most frequently described criteria of adulthood are related to responsibility and independence (decisive, financial, and residential). Three of five classic markers – finishing school, getting married, and having a child – have lessened in significance. Further analysis reveals that the fourth classic marker – independent housing – does not play a key role, albeit independence is significantly associated with financial autonomy.