8. Living at Home in Early Adulthood + 9. Importance of Work & 5 Dimensions of Meaning of Work

Generation Most Likely to Live at Home

Millennials. (Additionally, 57% of 18–24 year-olds currently reside in a parent's home).

Reasons

Advanced educational requirements delaying income generation, lower entry-level wages relative to high living costs, student loan debt, and housing unaffordability

Structures Adult Life

Dictates daily schedules and long-term phases (preparation, involvement, milestones, retirement).

Shapes Lifestyle

Determines housing, leisure time, friendship networks, and financial capacity.

Influences Self-Concept

Provides personal identity, self-esteem, and social status

Work Centrality

Work is the core focus of life, prioritized over personal time. Example- Canceling personal dinner plans to handle a work emergency.

Economic Orientation

Work is strictly a means to earn income and pay for necessities. Example- Working a job you don't enjoy solely to support your family financially.

Interpersonal Relations

Work is valued primarily for social interaction and friendships. Example- Enjoying going to work because you get to socialize with co-workers.

Intrinsic Orientation

Work provides personal challenge, skill mastery, and accomplishment. Example- Taking on complex projects to showcase problem-solving skills.

Entitlement/Obligation

Work is seen as a civic duty or societal requirement. Example- Getting a job immediately after school because adults are expected to work