Parent and Peer Attachment as Predictors of Emerging Adulthood Characteristics

Abstract

Researchers examined parent and peer attachment as predictors of emerging adulthood characteristics, including instability, feeling in-between, self-focus, identity exploration, and possibilities. Participants included 1,501 undergraduate students ages 18 to 20 years. Based on regression analyses, peer attachment was the only statistically significant predictor of emerging adult characteristics. Gender-specific differences were also found. Relevance for emerging adult counselors is discussed.