In most societies, one is considered to have reached adulthood by the age of 18. This is
to restrict certain activities that would not be appropriate for the younger crowd, as well as to
distinguish societal responsibilities that are associated with adulthood. However, the actual
concept of adulthood cannot be whittled down to an exact age. Adulthood defines the
milestones of development for one’s behavioural qualities and social responsibilities.
Maturity is the common underlying theme of emotional and behavioural qualities that an
adult should possess. Behavioural maturity involves being able to make effective decisions. This
involves identifying a goal, being able to gather information and weigh opinions, and landing at a
productive outcome. This process also involves emotional maturity wherein emotions can be
taken into consideration, but they are not the primary driver of the decision making. This ability
becomes more inherent as one progresses further into adulthood.
The ability to build relationships based on equality is another emotional and behavioural
quality of adulthood. To do this, one must be able to show empathy in order to understand and
support those around them, which then allows adults to recognize and consider the needs of
others. Effective communication and the ability to articulate one’s thoughts in response then
helps build meaningful adult relationships. This is in contrast to being codependent as one
naturally would be when they have not yet reached adulthood. Taking responsibility for one’s
actions is also an important quality as it shows that one acknowledges the role they play in
relationships. Rather than pushing the blame on others, adults realize that their actions have
both positive and negative effects. Other people and external factors definitely have an
influence, but one must realize that they are in charge of their own actions.
Being able to adopt certain social roles is an important quality of adulthood. This can be
interpreted in the most literal sense wherein people who are over the age of 18 can vote in most
democratic societies. Social roles can also be considered as responsibilities an adult would
adopt in order to be a productive member of society. This can manifest in the form of financial
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independence and being able to support oneself. This relates to the aforementioned quality of
being able to build and maintain relationships based on equality.
In conclusion, adulthood cannot be defined solely by age. The qualities must involve
emotional and behavioural maturity as well as being able to adopt societal roles that are
typically expected of adults.
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