This study explores the perceptions of young adults in Spain about the stages of their life course, with a specific focus on the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
Grounded in the life course approach, this research uses life story interviews supplemented with targeted questions to gain deeper insights into the expectations of young people.
The findings demonstrate that young adults’ expectations are influenced by their educational experiences, peer interactions, family support and broader societal context. Despite changing social and economic conditions, the study uncovers a persistent traditional pattern of expectations for adulthood, including aspirations for stable employment and family formation.
While this research provides valuable insights, the study’s focus on Spanish young adults may not fully capture the experiences of young people in other cultural contexts.
Understanding the factors that influence young people’s expectations can aid in the development of targeted policies and programs that cater to their needs and aspirations.
This study is part of the international comparative research project YOUNG_ADULLLT and contributes to the understanding of young adults’ expectations and the intricate interplay between societal changes and individual choices in shaping their life course trajectories.
