The End of Adolescence

“Professors Hill and Redding convincingly dismiss the widely held view that contemporary young people are fundamentally different from their counterparts who came of age a half-century ago. The End of Adolescence reminds us that the essential psychological challenges inherent in becoming an adult in today’s society—and the supports that adolescents need to make this transition successfully—are not all that dissimilar from what they were in past generations. Scholars and students of adolescence should read this thoughtful book.”—Laurence Steinberg, author of Age of Opportunity: Lessons from the New Science of Adolescence

“This book is a must-read for anyone who cares deeply about one of the most misunderstood populations in our society—emerging adults. The process adolescents used for self-discovery and preparing for the world of work has changed dramatically. Yet as the book reminds us, it’s not young people who have changed over time, it’s their contexts and opportunities.”—Angel B. Pérez, Ph.D., CEO, National Association for College Admission Counseling

“This engaging book uses an untapped treasure trove of interviews from college students in the 1970s to draw insights for today. Young adults thrive when we give them the space to develop, when they can find community while staying connected to home, and when they have time to pursue career interests. Delaying adulthood is not new and it is not harmful—if used safely and well.”—Adam Gamoran, Ph.D., President, William T. Grant Foundation

“The End of Adolescence fills a void in research on adolescence and young adulthood development, as Hill and Redding address an age-old question: ‘Are kids these days different than those in the past?’ Hill and Redding’s innovative research reveals that what has changed is not today’s youth, but rather the historical context in which they have developed. This timely book should be required reading for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of adolescence and young adult development.”—Velma McBride Murry, Vanderbilt University and President, Society for Research on Adolescence