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The Quarter-life Time Period: An Age of Indulgence, Crisis or Both?

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Abstract

A new developmental stage called the quarter-life is proposed, extending from approximately 18–29 years of age and sometimes later. The emergence of this period is believed to be the result of several social, historic and economic factors that occurred post WWII. This article explores these changes in terms of the experiences of affluent young people in today’s Western society. A typology of adaptational responses are presented and explored as the quarter-lifers attempt to navigate their way to adulthood within the context of this ‘new’ affluent society. Implications for family therapists are considered.

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Acknowledgement

A special note of thanks to Ian Nichols who assisted in the initial stages of this work.

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Correspondence to Joan D. Atwood.

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Atwood, J.D., Scholtz, C. The Quarter-life Time Period: An Age of Indulgence, Crisis or Both?. Contemp Fam Ther 30, 233–250 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-008-9066-2

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