Learning Objectives

  1. Compare one’s own emotional and cognitive reactions to three case studies.
  2. Define young adulthood.
  3. Analyze the merits of three theoretical approaches to young adulthood (Erikson’s psychosocial approach, Levinson’s theory of life structure, and Arnett’s theory of emerging adulthood).
  4. Summarize the major themes in physical functioning in young adulthood.
  5. Analyze how cognitive development, spiritual development, and identity development during young adulthood are related to the development of a psychological sense of self.
  6. Identify major issues related to social development and social functioning in young adulthood.
  7. Give examples of important risk factors and protective factors during young adulthood.
  8. Apply knowledge of young adulthood to recommend guidelines for social work engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation.