Young men are entering adulthood later, redefining what it means to be a man and facing mounting economic and social challenges that shape how they see their future, according to a new survey released on Monday.
The report, conducted by Institute for Family Studies, paints a complex picture: Many young men in the United States feel uncertain or discouraged about their progress in life — yet remain hopeful about work, family and personal growth.
Traditional milestones like marriage and parenthood no longer dominate young men’s ideas about becoming adults, the report found. Instead, they increasingly emphasize psychological traits like responsibility, independence and personal decision-making.
In 2002, about 65% of young men said completing education was extremely important to becoming an adult. By 2025, that number had dropped to 31%. Only 9% today say marriage is an essential milestone — down slightly from 13% in 2002.
Instead, the 74-page report said, many define adulthood in more internal terms: More than half say accepting responsibility and making independent decisions are key signs of maturity.
In our new YouGov survey of young men, ages 18-29, we find that young men view college with a great deal of ambivalence, especially young men who are not attending college but also young men who are currently attending college or have a degree.
— The Institute for Family Studies (@FamStudies) March 16, 2026
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