Emerging Adulthood Programme
Overview
The Emerging Adulthood Programme was designed to address a critical gap in support services for young people aged 18-30. This demographic often falls between traditional youth services and adult support systems, despite facing unique challenges during this formative life transition period.
Challenge
Young adults face multiple significant transitions simultaneously:
- Establishing independent living arrangements
- Navigating career pathways or higher education
- Forming adult identities separate from family of origin
- Developing significant relationships and support networks
- Managing financial independence and security
- Building emotional resilience in an increasingly complex world
Research shows this developmental stage has extended in recent decades, with many young people taking longer to achieve traditional markers of adulthood. However, support services have not evolved to address the specific needs of this group.
Approach
I developed this programme using a comprehensive, evidence-based approach that drew from:
- Developmental Psychology: Incorporating theories of emerging adulthood (Arnett)
- Neuroscience: Understanding continued brain development during this period
- Trauma-Informed Practice: Recognizing the impact of early experiences on adult functioning
- Positive Psychology: Focusing on strengths and resilience rather than deficits
- Practical Implementation: Ensuring the programme was accessible and engaging
Key Programme Components
The Emerging Adulthood Programme was structured around four core pillars:
Identity & Purpose
- Self-exploration workshops and reflective practice
- Values clarification exercises
- Future-oriented goal setting
- Cultural and contextual identity work
Relationships & Belonging
- Building healthy relationship skills
- Creating community connections
- Developing communication strategies
- Addressing isolation and loneliness
Wellbeing & Resilience
- Mental health literacy and preventative strategies
- Emotional regulation techniques
- Stress management approaches
- Digital wellbeing practices
Practical Navigation
- Financial literacy and planning
- Career exploration and development
- Housing and independent living skills
- Systems navigation (healthcare, government services, etc.)
Implementation
The programme was designed to be delivered through multiple channels:
- Small group workshops (6-8 participants)
- Individual coaching sessions
- Digital resources and self-guided materials
- Peer support networks and community engagement
Security Considerations
The programme incorporated robust security measures to protect participants:
- Secure data collection systems for sensitive personal information
- Privacy-focused evaluation protocols
- Secure digital platforms for resource sharing
- Clear boundaries and confidentiality agreements
- Comprehensive staff training on data protection
Results & Impact
Initial pilots of the Emerging Adulthood Programme demonstrated promising outcomes prior to organisational restructuring. Despite the full implementation being halted, the programme’s theoretical framework and materials were successfully adopted by several organisations before the delivery phase was interrupted.
Available Resources
For organisations interested in implementing similar programmes for emerging adults:
- Programme curriculum outline
- Evaluation framework and measurement tools
- Implementation guide with security considerations
- Training materials for facilitators
- Digital resource templates
Please contact me for more information about implementing this programme in your organisation.