printAdulthood in the Times of Instability:
Challenges and Opportunities
Bemler E.S.
PhD Student, research intern at the Center for Youth Studies at the HSE St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Russia ebemler@hse.ru
The study was implemented with the support of the Faculty of Social Sciences, HSE University.
Bemler E.S. Adulthood in the Times of Instability: Challenges and Opportunities. Sotsiologicheskie issledovaniya [Sociological Studies]. 2025. No 7. P. 125-134
The article presents a comprehensive analysis of narratives about adulthood as an age identity and a period of life in the context of contemporary Russia. Particular attention is paid to the age group 40–60 years, which often finds itself on the margins of social research and policy. The study, conducted in a qualitative paradigm, includes 22 biographical interviews with representatives of this age category, revealing their subjective experiences and perceptions of growing up. Participants define adulthood not through social markers, but through such internal qualities as responsibility, emotional maturity, and adaptability. The key challenges were external instability, associated mainly with the socio- economic and political situation in the country, the need to be responsible for both children and parents, approaching aging with its physical limitations, and professional uncertainty. However, despite these difficulties, middle age also opens up new opportunities due to greater financial stability, life experience and skills, as well as greater self-confidence and self-determination. Informants use these resources to change careers, obtain additional education, start business, and develop personally. The results show that adulthood is perceived not only as a period of responsibility and obligations, but also as a time of opportunities for personal and professional growth. The study participants note that despite external difficulties and instability, they strive to adapt to changes, rethinking their goals and opening up new horizons. Adulthood is not limited to social markers but includes emotional and moral aspects, creating a balance between freedom and responsibility. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding maturity as a dynamic and multifaceted process that requires individuals to be flexible and able to self-actualize in the context of modern challenges. As a result, middle age is not presented as a period of completion but as an opportunity to rethink life and adapt to changing conditions, while maintaining self-confidence and the desire for self-realization.
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