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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The report, conducted by Institute for Family Studies,<\/a> paints a complex picture: Many young men in the United States feel uncertain or discouraged about their progress in life \u2014 yet remain hopeful about work, family and personal growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Traditional milestones like marriage and parenthood no longer dominate young men\u2019s ideas about becoming adults, the report found. Instead, they increasingly emphasize psychological traits like responsibility, independence and personal decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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 \u2014 down slightly from 13% in 2002.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read it all<\/a>.<\/p> 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.
Read more: https:\/\/t.co\/vjXfWJNMAc<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/2LGpKPBmzr<\/a><\/p>— The Institute for Family Studies (@FamStudies) March 16, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>