What is one of the key developmental tasks of young adulthood?

Establishing independence is a fundamental developmental task of young adulthood. During this stage, individuals typically transition from the dependent structure of adolescence into a phase where they take on more responsibilities and make decisions independently. This involves various aspects, such as financial independence, pursuing education or career paths, forming intimate relationships, and developing a sense of personal identity.

Young adults often seek to assert their own values and establish their own lifestyle choices, which are crucial for their overall growth and maturity. The ability to make independent decisions is essential for developing self-confidence and a sense of agency. This task sets the stage for future responsibilities and contributes to emotional and psychological development as they navigate relationships, careers, and their place in society.

In contrast, adjusting to retirement is more relevant to later adulthood, achieving civic/social responsibility may emerge slightly earlier but is not as primary as independence in young adulthood, and accepting physiological changes tends to be associated with middle adulthood rather than the young adult stage.