Research Review: The neuroscience of emerging adulthood – reward, ambiguity, and social support as building blocks of mental health

Abstract

BackgroundThe interval between adolescence and adulthood, ‘emerging adulthood’ (EA), lays the foundation for lifelong health and well‐being. To date, there exist little empirical data – particularly in the neurobiological domain – to establish markers of risk and resilience during the transition to adulthood. This gap in the literature is concerning given the numerous forms of psychiatric illness that emerge or worsen during this period.MethodsIn this review, we focus on two strands of research with distinct importance for EA: reward sensitivity, and tolerance of ambiguity. We begin by placing these domains in a framework that considers the unique developmental goals of EA and then synthesize emerging neurobiological research on how these domains develop during EA. We then consider their role in common mental health problems that occur during this interval as well as how social support may moderate outcomes. Finally, we offer recommendations for advancing research to understand developmental process and outcomes in EA.Findings and conclusionsFew longitudinal studies specifically address emerging adult development and the milestones that characterize this interval. Data on neurobiological development are similarly sparse. Understanding neurobiological development during this window and its links to key adjustment outcomes is crucial for optimizing outcomes.