Redefining Adulthood across Cultures: A Qualitative Study of Emerging Adulthood In Italy and the United States

Barcelona, Spain · May 2026

Posters · Development & Change Across the Lifespan

Marissa Alfieri
Boston University
Catherine Caldwell-Harris
Boston University

Abstract

We examined autonomy, parental support, and identity development in emerging adulthood through semi-structured interviews with 22 participants (15 American, 7 Italian; ages 18–29). Thematic analysis revealed culturally shaped meanings of adulthood, marked by emotional closeness and prolonged dependence, supporting the role of family dynamics in identity formation.

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Redefining Adulthood across Cultures: A Qualitative Study of Emerging Adulthood In Italy and the United States

Abstract

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