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A new study from the University of Zurich shows that the cultural influence on the transition to adulthood in sub-Saharan Africa is more communal and less self-centered than in Western contexts.
Most of the psychological research on the transition to adulthood has been conducted in Europe and North America – similar Western, industrialized contexts. As a result, we often don’t know which of the findings capture human universals, and which capture Western-specific phenomena. A new study from the University of Zurich examines emerging adulthood among the Ovambo people of Namibia, who are the largest ethnic group in the country mostly residing in the northern regions of the country. The research team interviewed about fifty Ovambo Namibians between the ages of 18 and 25.
This period of entry into adulthood is important to understand because it helps to discern what a society expects of a full adult. In Western contexts, early adulthood is often defined as a time of individual exploration and delayed assumption of responsibility. “In sub-Saharan Africa, however, the phase of individual exploration is infused with communal values, interdependence and responsibilities, and this is what defines adult personhood,” says Selma Uugwanga of the Department of Psychology at the University of Zurich and lead author of the study.
Sub-Saharan Africa coming of age will have global impact
Emerging adulthood is also a vulnerable time, when opportunities and support can shape a person’s future, and when mental health disorders are most likely to emerge. “This issue is particularly important in sub-Saharan Africa because it is the region with the youngest population in the world, with 70% of people under the age of 30,” says Uugwanga.
Sub-Saharan Africa is also home to more of the world’s population than all Western contexts combined. Much of the region’s social and economic future is reliant on the development and well-being of this generation, and they will have an impact on the world as a whole.
In contrast to Western countries, the researchers found a strong focus on altruism among the 18- to 25-year-old Ovambo Namibians in both rural and urban areas: Self-determination in the pursuit of educational and career goals is ultimately intended to serve others. The importance of the family in the identity of Ovambo young adults is strong, which connects them to a long tradition throughout Africa. For example, older children assist caregivers, leading to earlier recognition of their competence and independence.
Gender differences in the transition to adulthood
“Being recognized as an adult in this context is shaped by traditional gender roles, birth-order-associated responsibilities, ability to care for others and psychological maturity in terms of reflexivity, resilience and independence. This is coupled with humility and respect for the wisdom of elders,” explains Uugwanga.
Traditional gender roles still prevail among Ovambo emerging adults and shape the expectations of adulthood. Women often take on caregiving responsibilities earlier, which results in them being perceived as adults sooner. However, they are also seen as more protected and supported by their families. Men have more autonomy but face higher expectations to become financial providers before being fully recognized as adults.
Both genders emphasize the importance of education as a new rite of passage that will help them secure better opportunities for their families and communities, especially in today’s knowledge-based economy. This may be particularly true for women, whose protective elders may allow them greater independence in pursuing education. Overall gender equality in the labor force is increasing in Namibia with 56% participation for women, 64% for men, which is about average for middle-income countries (The World Bank Gender Data Portal, 2023).
Challenges for young adults in sub-Saharan Africa
Education and career development are key concerns for young adults in Africa, according to the study. Individuals are striving to live up to communal values and expectations, but unemployment limits their ability to earn enough to care for others, let alone themselves. “The lack of stable employment means that even those who complete their education may experience delays in achieving full adult status. Nevertheless, our study shows that African young adults are resilient in the face of these adversities, as they seem to thrive on the support of their families and communities,” says Uugwanga.
The findings highlight the need for initiatives that promote economic opportunities for youth, while respecting the cultural values of communal responsibility that are fundamental to the identity of African young adults. They also advocate community-based approaches to promoting the well-being of this population. As Africa continues to globalize, balancing tradition with new opportunities will be key to fostering a generation of empowered and socially responsible adults.
Literature
Selma N. Uugwanga et al. Becoming an Ovambo Adult: Growing Into Agentic Communalism in Sub-Saharan Africa. Psychological Science, 10 February 2025. Doi: 10.1177/09567976241311920
Contact
Selma Uugwanga
Department of Psychology
University of Zurich
+41 78 256 27 76
E-Mail: selma.uugwanga@psychologie.uzh.ch
Selma Uugwanga
Department of Psychology
University of Zurich
+41 78 256 27 76
E-Mail: selma.uugwanga@psychologie.uzh.ch
Selma N. Uugwanga et al. Becoming an Ovambo Adult: Growing Into Agentic Communalism in Sub-Saharan Africa. Psychological Science, 10 February 2025. Doi: 10.1177/09567976241311920
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