Health, Risk, and Sexuality in Emerging Adulthood — Summary of Chapter 17 from The Developing Person

Health, Risk, and Sexuality in Emerging Adulthood — Summary of Chapter 17 from The Developing Person

Emerging adulthood, typically ranging from ages 18 to 25, is a unique life stage defined by physical peak performance, increased autonomy, and exploration in health, risk, and relationships. Chapter 17 of The Developing Person Through the Life Span offers a comprehensive look into the biosocial development of individuals during this critical period. This blog post summarizes the key concepts covered in the chapter to support students and educators alike in understanding this transitional phase of adulthood.

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Book cover

Peak Physical and Biological Development

Emerging adults enjoy optimal physical health during this stage, marked by peak strength, organ efficiency, and reproductive capacity. These benefits are supported by:

  • Organ reserve: Extra capacity in body systems to handle stress
  • Homeostasis: Short-term balance in physiological processes
  • Allostasis: Long-term adjustment to physiological needs

While individuals may feel invincible, choices made during this stage—such as diet, sleep, and exercise—lay the foundation for long-term health or chronic conditions due to accumulating allostatic load.

Exercise, Diet, and Lifestyle Habits

Maintaining regular physical activity, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep during emerging adulthood reduces future health risks. However, this age group often delays seeking medical attention, increasing vulnerability to preventable issues over time.

Risk-Taking in Emerging Adulthood

Adolescents and young adults are biologically and socially primed for risk-taking behaviors. While this can lead to positive growth (e.g., studying abroad, entrepreneurship), it also increases the likelihood of:

  • Accidents and injuries
  • Substance use and abuse
  • Unsafe sexual behavior

Drug use peaks during this life stage due to social pressures, exploration, and increased autonomy. Although some risk is developmentally normal, education and intervention are essential to preventing long-term consequences.

Sexuality and Reproductive Health

Biologically, emerging adults are at the height of sexual maturity. However, cultural and economic shifts often delay childbearing. Increased access to contraception has reduced unwanted pregnancies, but STI rates continue to rise due to inconsistent safe sex practices.

Chapter 17 also addresses the role of:

  • Cohort effects: Shared cultural influences that shape sexual attitudes
  • Globalization: International travel and relationships that impact STI transmission
  • Sexual double standards: Societal norms that affect sexual behavior and identity, especially across gender lines

Conclusion: Health and Identity in Transition

Emerging adulthood represents a time of great opportunity and vulnerability. Peak physical condition is counterbalanced by risk behaviors, lifestyle experimentation, and evolving sexuality. Understanding the biosocial dimensions of this life stage is crucial for promoting well-being and preparing individuals for the responsibilities of full adulthood.

For a full review of the chapter, watch the podcast-style summary and explore additional psychology content on the Last Minute Lecture YouTube channel.

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