From the perspective of William Perry's Theory of Intellectual and Ethical Development, emerging adults (typically ages 18–25) transition from viewing the world in black-and-white terms to recognizing that knowledge is often complex, contextual, and uncertain. In Perry's later stages, students move from Relativism to Commitment within Relativism, where they make informed choices despite ambiguity.

From a sociological perspective, these commitments are influenced by family, culture, social institutions, economics, peer groups, and historical events. Emerging adults often face commitments such as:

Area of Commitment

Relativistic Choice or Commitment

Sociological Influence

Career

Choosing a profession despite multiple acceptable paths

Labor market, socioeconomic status, educational opportunities

Education

Deciding whether to continue education, change majors, or enter the workforce

Cost of education, family expectations, social mobility

Political Identity

Developing personal political beliefs rather than simply adopting family views

Media, peers, cultural values, current events

Religious/Spiritual Beliefs

Maintaining, modifying, or rejecting childhood beliefs

Family traditions, diversity, community influences

Relationships

Choosing long-term partners and defining healthy relationships

Cultural norms, gender roles, social expectations

Family Planning

Whether and when to marry or have children

Economic stability, cultural values, career goals

Ethical Values

Establishing personal moral principles

Education, religion, community standards, life experiences

Identity

Determining "Who am I?" across multiple social roles

Race, ethnicity, gender, culture, social class

Lifestyle

Choosing where to live and how to balance work and personal life

Housing costs, employment opportunities, community

Technology & Social Media

Determining responsible digital behavior and online identity

Peer influence, digital culture, privacy concerns

Financial Responsibility

Managing debt, budgeting, investing, and saving

Economic conditions, financial literacy, family resources

Civic Engagement

Deciding how to participate in society through voting, volunteering, or advocacy

Social movements, education, community involvement

Perry's "Commitment within Relativism"

According to Perry, mature thinkers eventually recognize that:

• There is rarely one universally correct answer to complex social problems.

• Multiple viewpoints may each have merit when supported by evidence.

• Individuals must make informed commitments even when certainty is impossible.

For example:

Issue

Dualistic Thinking

Relativistic Thinking

Commitment

Career

"There is one best career."

"Several careers could fit my interests and abilities."

"After considering my goals and values, I choose social work."

Politics

"One party is always right."

"Both parties have strengths and weaknesses."

"I support policies that align with my values while remaining open to new evidence."

Relationships

"There is one perfect partner."

"Healthy relationships depend on compatibility, communication, and effort."

"I commit to building a respectful, long-term partnership."

Religion

"My family's beliefs are the only truth."

"Many belief systems address life's questions in different ways."

"I choose the beliefs and practices that best align with my experiences and values."

Discussion Questions for Students

1. What commitments do most college students have to make before graduation?

2. How do family and culture influence these commitments?

3. Can someone make a strong commitment while remaining open to changing their mind? Why or why not?

4. Which commitments are most difficult for emerging adults today compared with previous generations?

5. How does social media complicate or support the process of developing commitments?

Classroom Takeaway

From Perry's perspective, the hallmark of intellectual maturity is not finding absolute certainty, but rather making thoughtful, evidence-based commitments while recognizing that knowledge is often contextual and open to revision. Sociologically, these commitments are shaped by social structures and cultural influences, making the transition to adulthood both a personal and a social developmental process.