About This Project

As emerging adults (EA), 18-25 year olds make important decisions about college, work, + family. While this group comprises almost 10% of the population, there are few public policies supporting their positive development. This study explores the relationships between social agency and the pathway(s) to adulthood and will inform policymakers about new ways to support Rhode Island's young people.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Have you ever wondered why some young people are able to successfully transition to adulthood and some are not? Why some young people progress in a college environment and others can't stay in school or find a secure job? The U.S. relies on emerging adults for their innovation, their procreation, their contribution to the workforce, and their active participation in social, political, and civic life. This study examines the social agency of low-income emerging adults and emerging adults of color who have diminished access to power and resources. The study then identifies experiences that may facilitate social agency and how agency and its facilitators vary based on race, class, and gender.

What is the significance of this project?

This study measures how individual and structural conditions contribute to social agency and at the same time documents the experiences and opportunities of low-income young people and young people of color in Rhode Island. Additionally, the research brings public attention to opportunity youth (neither in college nor employed) who may require new and/or non-traditional paths in order to enable a successful transition to adulthood. Finally, the study provides voice to young people -- it is from their collective knowledge that researchers and policymakers may decide to place greater value on emerging adults and allocate the resources necessary to promote their collective social agency and to ensure a positive trajectory to adulthood.

What are the goals of the project?

The goal of this project is to better understand what factors are related to a young person's strength of social agency which is defined as (1) hope for the future, (2) efficacy, power, + control, (3) voice + engagement, and (4) ability to act, advocate, and make choices. Phase 1 is a web-based survey, Phase 2 are focus groups to review the survey findings and explore the concepts of social agency based on participants' personal experiences. Finally, Phase 3 is the analysis of findings and the historical documentation of national and state public policies that target emerging adults. The final product will be a set of policy recommendations surrounding the social agency of low-income EA and EA of color in Rhode Island.