Emerging adulthood is a recent concept in psychology that encompasses individuals from ages 18-25. Research has shown that the development of an individualized identity is of great importance in this period of the life. This project explores the elements involved in cultivating an identity as an emerging adult, as well as the role those elements play in the lives of emerging adults with disabilities. My observations were constructed upon an internship with the Transition Options in Postsecondary Settings (TOPS) program for students with intellectual disabilities at The Ohio State University. I have based this project on the works of emerging adulthood scholar Jeffery Arnett, as well as those of disability studies scholars Andrew Solomon and Tobin Siebers. In addition, I use concepts discussed in Think College, a guidebook for individuals leading the TOPS program, and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model, to aid in understanding the connection between identity and disability. It is my hope that this project will eventually lead to the personal growth of emerging adults with disabilities as they become successful in higher education settings and in life.No embargoAcademic Major: Speech and Hearing Scienc
