Dramatic gains in average life expectancy have occurred over the last century. Both hereditary and environmental factors play a role in life expectancy and physical changes over the lifespan. While some scientists are concerned with increasing human longevity, many more agree that increasing the years of active, vigorous life is an appropriate goal. The programmed effects of specific genes appear to combine with the cumulative effects of random events to contribute to the aging process. The physical changes of aging are very gradual over early adulthood, and the effects are mediated by exercise, nutrition, health practices, and stress levels. Obesity and substance abuse have a major impact on health and longevity.

While they enjoy a wider range of sexual choices than did in previous generations, American adults are less sexually active than commonly believed. Heterosexuals and homosexuals, alike choose partners who are similar to themselves and are more satisfied in committed relationships. Sexually transmitted disease, rape, and premenstrual syndrome are important concerns of early adulthood.

Adult cognition changes to reflect an awareness of multiple truths, integration of logic with reality, and tolerance of the gap between real and ideal. Gains in expertise enhance problem -solving as well as creativity, which increasingly involves the formulation of meaningful problems to be solved. Longitudinal findings indicate that intellectual performance improves steadily into middle adulthood and only declines only late in life.

College experiences contribute to gains in knowledge and reasoning, revised attitudes and values, enhanced self-knowledge, and career preparation. In societies with many career possibilities, occupational choice is a gradual process. Vocational choices are influenced by personality, parents’ occupations, and teachers. Gender-stereotyped messages continue to prevent many women from reaching their career potential. Many young people would beneftitf from greater access to vocational information.Youth apprenticeships such as those in Germany might may have the potential to improve the limited career options of American high school graduates who do not attend college.