It’s a period of intense questioning regarding work, values, and love. Modern Pressures and Challenges
There is growing anxiety about entering a job market where entry-level roles are being reshaped by automation and AI. teens 18yo
Today's 18-year-olds are facing a unique set of "2026-specific" hurdles: It’s a period of intense questioning regarding work,
Despite these challenges, there is a strong current of resilience. Many 18-year-olds find hope in: Teens' future plans and goals | Pew Research Center teens 18yo
Among Black teens, 50% say they'll attend a four-year college (not significantly different from White or Hispanic teens). In turn, Pew Research Center Anticipated Youth Mental Health Trends in 2026
Constant connectivity through platforms like TikTok and Instagram fosters a nonstop cycle of comparison to idealized peer lives and influencers.