From the "Failure to Launch" to "Helicopter Parents," research on young adults reveals that media messages do not tell the story about the 18 - 25 year old population. Developmental psychologists, sociologists, demographers and public policy professionals are helping all of us understand the special needs of those at this important developmental stage. What are the unique concerns of emerging adults? What does the latest research show? How does public policy meet-or fail to meet- their needs? How can family professionals help families through this transition? In this issue of NCFR Report, NCFR experts examine these and other questions.
How do family professionals find their career paths? Is it careful planning-or "luck?" What roles do mentors play? How can we combine a "family" career with our own family responsibilities? In this issue of NCFR Report, read how your colleagues have developed professionally-and how they've developed the profession.
No longer children, not yet adults, adolescents are negotiating a unique developmental stage of transition and transformation. What are the risks? What promotes resilience? In this issue of NCFR Report, your colleagues answer these and other questions.
If knowledge is power, then family scientists are powerful. Their research can shape public policy, inform the work of family-serving agencies, and allow practitioners to become more effective. But to do this, researchers must go beyond discovery to application and practice. In this issue, we explore how family scientists are using research data to create successful programs for children and families, help communities meet the needs of youth, and influence policymakers.
