Emerging Adulthood in Brazilians of Differing Socioeconomic Status: Transition to Adulthood¹

Adultez Emergente em Brasileiros de Diferentes Níveis Socioeconômicos: Transição Para a Vida Adulta

Adultez Emergente en Brasileños de Diferentes Niveles Socioeconómicos: Transición Para la Vida Adulta

This study was a descriptive exploratory investigation into the transition to adulthood in Brazilian young people of differing socioeconomic status (SES), considering the phenomenon of Emerging Adulthood (EA). The variables analyzed were sociodemographic aspects, perceptions of adulthood, access to technology, and educational and employment status. The sample included 547 young people ranging between 18 and 29 years of age, residents of Porto Alegre (RS), of low and high SES. More than 50% of the total sample reported that they felt in-between adolescence and adulthood, which may indicate the existence of EA in individuals of both SES. However, EA was more likely to be present in high SES contexts. The low SES group presented a tendency to assume adult responsibilities earlier, which blocks their opportunities for experiencing a period of identity exploration.

adult development; young adults; adults