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Variable Definitions of Adulthood

The point at which an individual becomes an adult is not universally fixed and can be defined in various ways. Legally, in the United States, adulthood begins at age 18. Sociologically, a person may be considered an adult when they achieve milestones such as becoming self-supporting, choosing a career, getting married, or starting a family. These definitions and the ages at which milestones are achieved vary significantly across cultures. For instance, in some societies like Malawi, individuals may take on adult responsibilities such as marriage and work (e.g., carrying water, tending babies, and working fields) as early as 10 years old. In stark contrast, independence in Western cultures is taking longer and longer, effectively delaying the onset of adult life.

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Updated 2026-05-08

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