“People between 20 and 34 are taking longer to finish their educations, establish
themselves in careers, marry, have children and become financially independent…” (Cohen, 2010)

The most intriguing aspect of this quote has nothing to do with what it actually says and, rather, with the fact that the information here is used to describe the current generation’s (age 20-34) Peter Pan syndrome, as if all those choices are immature or childish and, therefore, lacking of all responsibility. I ultimately understand that the point of the combined readings of this section is to show the complexity of adolescence, which it is, but there seems to be a confusing disconnect between this “in-between” stage in the middle of adolescence and young adulthood. This is a fascinating topic to develop opinions around all on its own, but when we look at the implications it may or may not have on education, I think our old fashioned expectations of adulthood are only hindering those that are in that “in-between” stage simply trying to make the best decisions for their circumstances. A man by the name of Mr. Furstenberg from Cohen’s New York Times article (2010) even states himself that “we’re still living with the archaic idea that people enter adulthood in there late teens and early 20s”, and I couldn’t agree more. I’ve taught 18-year old students, and as amazing as they are, I’m scared for any society that believes those children are adults. I don’t know what 18-year olds from the 80s looked like, but it just can’t be the same.