HHS4U: Individuals in Early Adulthood

Adolescence

The period of time that follows childhood and precedes adulthood.

Transition

A changing or movement from one stage, condition or place to another. Adolescence is the transition phase.

Events that distinguish becoming an adult

Graduation, marriage, rites of passage (bar mitzvah)

The chronological clock

The literal clock - reflects age. It defines when we enter adulthood at the age of 18.

Biological clock

Reflects our physical age as we grow (sexual maturity, reaching full size/strength). Has sped up over time due to better nutrition and health care.

Psychological clock

Reflects how the brain is developing and how we mature psychologically. It includes how we gain ways of understanding the world in a more mature sense. It is difficult to measure.

Social clock

Reflects society’s “timetable” of expectations for us. It includes when certain events are supposed to happen for us in life (ex. getting driver’s license at 16).

Youth homelessness

A youth having no fixed place to sleep at night (could be couch surfing or sleeping in motels).

Causes of youth homelessness

Disruptive family environment, residential instability, and leaving home to work independently.

Underhoused vs Homeless

Underhoused: Having inconsistent housing. (couch curfing, family/friends houses, motels) Homeless: No roof at night, living on the street, may use warming shelters.

How might homelessness impact life structure and social services?

Life structure: Decreased health outcomes, coping mechanisms. Impacts to social services: Higher rates of dependence on illegal means/substances to provide basic needs.