Summary and Syntheses

This chapter revisits the challenging economic and romantic conditions in which today’s emerging adults find themselves, conditions that help explain why emerging adults are taking longer to commit to long-term relationships than their parents did. The main milestones in transitioning from an I identity to a we identity are reviewed, with an emphasis on the constructs of commitment and sacrifice and their centrality to one’s readiness for a long-term relationship. The concept of risk is discussed as an explanation as to why many emerging adults seem content to foster ambiguity in their relationships even as they say they value honesty and clarity. Structures such as asymmetrically committed relationships, cohabitation, marriage and divorce are examined through the lens of risk and risk avoidance. Their commonality and individuality are emphasized, providing a rich understanding of emerging adults and how they live and love.