For most people, the path from infancy to the age of eighteen is charted by external forces. At the arbitrary age of eighteen, people are granted the ambiguous status of ‘adulthood’ with some of its attendant privileges and responsibilities. Part of the developmental task, of this time of life, involves looking out into that vast expanse of possibilities that often look like perils. Some young adults have not received any guidance as to how to fashion the rest of their lives; while others have been the receptacle of an overload of information and directions as to what to do next in their lives. During this transitional time, people grapple with questions about: career, school, occupation, finances, romance, separating from family and friends, and juggling the logistical tasks of adulthood.
Added to the mix of concrete decisions are the more nebulous tasks of looking at self-identity and questions of values and beliefs. Questions such as: who am I; what do I believe and value; how do I want to treat others and be treated; what can I contribute to the world; and examining how to best use my strengths are brought up in therapy. Part of this process involves trying on different roles and ideas. Each week may bring a new idea about a career path or a change in relationships. One week someone might consider moving to another country, feeling resolute about their belief in exploring the world and not being tied-down. The next week they might be toying with the idea of going back to school or getting a nine-to-five job; squarely in the camp of ‘security is more important than adventure’. This seesaw of emotions and behaviors can feel dizzying to some and contribute to questioning their own decision-making abilities and confidence. In therapy, young adults have the chance to look at many paths and feel more comfortable in where they are heading while knowing that they can always choose another path.
