Search Results

Based on the developmental theories of life course and emerging adulthood, the current study examines a central question about the diversity of trajectories among young adults who drop out of college. The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) provides prospective data on a nationally representative sample of US young adults. Our subsamples include young adults who dropped out of college (N= 1,530) and those who obtained a bachelor's degree (N= 1,977). We examined five dimensions of well-being: socio-economic success indicators, happiness/satisfaction, mastery, stress, and depression. Using latent class analysis, five classes of young adults who dropped out emerged that reflected variability in the patterns of well-being. Differences in socio-economic and mental health dimensions are elaborated in the study. The findings from this study provide valuable basis for challenging stereotypes about the college student dropout population.

Published abstract reprinted by permission of the copyright owner. Show less

Building on the Wisconsin Model of Status Attainment, this study examined the contextual process of obtaining educational attainment and the subsequent work outcomes and career satisfaction. This study used the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) with structural equation modeling techniques to assess US participants from adolescence to young adulthood (N = 8309). Socioeconomic resources provided by parents in adolescence directly predicted education outcomes and were partially mediated by family success expectations. Family success expectations were an important predictor of education outcomes. Neither socioeconomic resources nor success expectations directly predicted work outcomes or career satisfaction. Instead, education was the direct predictor of career satisfaction with work outcomes partially mediating. A multiple group analysis was conducted to compare outcomes between men and women. The discussion explores the implications of the findings and educational attainment for young adults in a global society.

Published abstract reprinted by permission of the copyright owner. Show less