The Launching
Many experts who study human development refer to the 18-25 age group as "emerging
adults". Erik Eriksson suggests in this time of our lives -- if nurtured in mind, body, and soul– we
should be able to accomplish two essential tasks of development: a healthy sense of who we
are or self identity; and secondly, the self realization that we possess the ability to
create intimacy and trust within our personal relationships. This stage is also the period of life
that brings the end of high school, yet also opens the doors of college and life beyond. Although
this transition is filled with growth and spiritual learning, it can also bring simultaneous feelings
of confusion.
Help yourself onto the launching pad by reflecting on and answering the following in a well
developed, well written reflection. Please use standard format: double space, one inch
margins, times new roman, 12 point font.
Due: Fri., 12/12
First tell me about your family of origin.
1. Do you have any siblings? Where are you in the family birth order?
2. Are your parents still together? How old were they when they married
3. What is your family’s style of communication? How do you all express feelings and
affection?
4. How does your family react to change and extraordinary events? Are they handled
assertively or are they largely ignored?
5. Who is the "touchstone" in your family? Who is the one person you can count on to love
you, respect you and be there for you without exception?
6. Did one or both of your parents go to college? If so, did they dorm or commute? Was
college a positive experience for them? (Ask! Explain!)
7. If you have siblings, have any of them attended college? If so, did they dorm or commute
and what affect did this have on your family?
Now tell me about you.
8. Do you feel your family relationships have anything to do with your actions and reactions?
9. Does your family have a certain expectation of you? Explain what you think that is.
10. Are you comfortable with your self-image or are you still working on the process of self
discovery?
11. In your opinion, can any of us ever live up to the standards set for us by other people?
Explain why or why not.
12. How important is it to accept ourselves for who we truly are? Explain your answer.
13. Have you decided which college you want to attend? If so, which school? If not, what are
your choices? What is driving your decision? Do you have any concerns about the
applications and acceptance process? What are they?
14. Have you decided whether or not you will live at school or commute back and forth to
college?
15. Are your parent’s thoughts and reactions affecting your decision making process regarding
any aspect of college?
16. If you are leaving home, do you have any concerns about living on your own? What are
they?
17. What are your feelings regarding your social circle? Do you have concerns about leaving
friends behind and maintaining relationships? Are you looking forward to making new
friends?
18. What do you need from your parents and family as you move forward? Support? Trust?
Independence? Autonomy? Confidence?
19. What do you feel are your responsibilities to your parents during this time? What do you
think are their responsibilities to you?
20. Think hard and be compassionate. How can you help your parents with the launching
process? Be specific and explain.
21. Are you ready to fly or are you apprehensive about leaving home, or perhaps even a bit of
both? Either way, I wish you every success as you prepare to launch.
Finally, please include anything else you feel would be valuable to this assignment Thanks for
sharing your insights.