Abstract

Young adulthood has always held a prominent place in the study of families and family communication. Young adulthood has traditionally been seen as a period of individual transition and union formation that was accompanied by vast changes in family dynamics and communication patterns. Arnett (2000, 2007) has suggested that the phase of life from 18 to 25 represents a new developmental stage for most young adults, a stage he designated as emerging adulthood. Emerging adulthood represents a unique moment in the life course, unique in terms of the content, quality and mediums of communication with family, friends, and romantic partners.