Why Do People Still Call 17-Year-Olds Children?
The question of whether 17-year-olds should be referred to as children often sparks debate, particularly in discussions about age-related roles and responsibilities. This article explores various reasons why society continues to label teenagers in their late teens as 'still children,' despite their legal and biological status.
Legal Definitions and Age of Majority
One of the primary reasons why people might still refer to 17-year-olds as children is rooted in legal definitions. Many countries define adulthood as beginning at 18, placing individuals under 18 under legal protections as minors. These protections can influence how individuals are perceived socially and affect their rights and responsibilities under the law. For instance, minors cannot make certain legal decisions without parental or legal guardian consent. This legal distinction can persist culturally and socially well into the early twenties, as seen in many jurisdictions that do not fully grant adult rights until age 21.
Psychological and Biological Development
From a developmental perspective, the transition to adulthood is a complex process that extends beyond the mere legal age of majority. Psychological and biological research suggest that brain development continues well into the twenties. This ongoing maturation process influences how society perceives and interacts with teenagers. Many individuals view those in their late teens as still undergoing significant growth and development, reflecting a more nuanced understanding of maturity.
Social Context and Cultural Norms
The social context in which 17-year-olds live also plays a significant role in how they are perceived. In many cultures, 17-year-olds are still in high schools and living with their parents or guardians. This environment reinforces the perception of them as children, even though they may have some responsibilities, such as managing personal finances or participating in extracurricular activities.
Cultural norms and thresholds for adulthood can vary widely. In some societies, 17 may still be seen as part of childhood. These cultural differences can lead to diverse perceptions of what constitutes independence and adulthood, contributing to why some people still refer to 17-year-olds as 'children.'
Biological Maturity vs. Social Maturity
It is important to note that while 17-year-olds are biologically considered adults due to their ability to reproduce, this does not equate to social or psychological maturity. The body may reach full physical development, but the mind and social capabilities often continue to evolve. This dichotomy can lead to confusion and misperceptions.
A 17-year-old is no longer a child by the biological definition of puberty, which typically occurs around age 14 or 15. However, they are also not yet full adults in the cultural and legal sense. Childhood ends with puberty, not with the arbitrary age of 17. Calling a 17-year-old a child reflects societal and cultural norms rather than a strict biological definition.
Realistic Perspectives on Adulthood
The debate over whether 17-year-olds are adults often extends to discussions about readiness for full independence. While some may argue that being 16 to 18 is adulthood because they can expect to live a century of life, it is unrealistic to suggest that full maturity is achieved at that age. The human lifespan is much longer, and the process of personal growth and development continues well into adulthood.
Furthermore, the notion that 16 to 18-year-olds are fully ready to make their own way in the world is often an idealization. Many young adults struggle with similar challenges as older adults, such as financial constraints, finding stable employment, and navigating complex social and familial relationships.
For example, a 17-year-old with only a high school diploma is likely to face significant obstacles in the job market. Minimum wage jobs, combined with high living costs, make it difficult for young adults to secure financial stability. Additionally, homelessness affects not just the homeless but also individuals from all walks of life, including young adults.
Importantly, the idea that adulthood is a state of complete independence and freedom is not universally accurate. Adulthood is a journey of ongoing maturation and personal growth, and the challenges faced by young adults reflect the complexity of the transition from adolescence to full maturity.
Conclusion
The terminology used to describe 17-year-olds as 'children' is influenced by a combination of legal, psychological, social, and cultural factors. While 17-year-olds are legally and biologically adults, they are often perceived as still in the transition period to full adulthood. Understanding these nuances can help bridge the gap between perceived age and actual maturity, promoting a more nuanced and compassionate view of young adults.