Final answer:
To be happy and well-adjusted in young adulthood, a developmental perspective suggests the importance of forming intimate relationships and engaging in generativity. Strong interpersonal connections and a sense of creating lasting contributions to the world are key components of well-being in young adulthood.
Step-by-step explanation:
From a developmental perspective, to be happy and well-adjusted in young adulthood often involves intimacy and generativity. According to Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, after developing a sense of self in adolescence, the next challenge for young adults is to form intimate relationships with others. This stage is characterized by the concern with establishing deep interpersonal connections and nurturing these bonds. Generativity, typically appearing in middle adulthood, refers to the need to create or nurture things that will outlast oneself, which can be expressed through parenting, but also through other creative and productive activities.
Positive relationships, such as those with family, spouses, and children, have been shown to contribute to well-being in adulthood. Moreover, stable marriages and positive parental interactions with adult children have been linked to increased levels of happiness and adjustment. Societal perspectives on these aspects are evolving, as seen in the shifting milestones for Millennials, which include completing school, leaving home, achieving financial independence, and possibly marrying and having children. However, these milestones are now being attained later in life or in different ways compared to previous generations.