Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Branaman, Ann

Abstract

In this study I analyze how college students transition to adulthood. Based on 38 semi-structured interviews with young adults, I found that two groups appeared: emerging adults and accelerated adults. Emerging adults were more likely to come from economically privileged families and had the social and economic resources to focus on education, pursue a fulfilling career, and have fun while in college. In contrast, accelerated adults had adopted adult responsibilities during their childhood or teenage years and struggled to succeed in college due to inadequate guidance, lingering emotional anguish over childhood events, and lack of financial support. Although enrolled in the same university, these groups transitioned to adulthood very differently. I discuss the implications for each type of transition, as well as the implications of my findings for public policy and for future sociological research.

Extent

101 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.A.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2018.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00005998

Format

pdf

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