The transition to adulthood was examined across three age groups: adolescents (13–19), emerging adults (20–29), and young-to-midlife adults (30–55). The study aimed to determine if conceptions of this transition varied among these groups. Individualistic criteria, such as accepting responsibility, deciding on beliefs and values, establishing equal relationships with parents, and financial independence, were considered most important by all age groups. Young-to-midlife adults were less likely than adolescents to view biological transitions as important, but more likely than adolescents or emerging adults to see norm compliance (e.g., avoiding drunk driving) as essential. Role transitions, like marriage, were considered least important in all groups. The study focused on the American majority culture, which is largely white and middle-class. It drew on anthropological, sociological, and psychological perspectives. Anthropologists emphasize marriage as a key transition, while sociologists highlight role transitions like education, employment, and parenthood. However, young Americans often view role transitions as less important. Psychological studies, however, show that individualistic criteria, such as responsibility and independence, are most valued. Compliance with social norms is also important. The transition is seen as long and gradual, spanning adolescence and emerging adulthood. This study examines how young-to-midlife adults view the transition to adulthood, comparing it to younger age groups. The research question was based on possible differences in perspectives, as young-to-midlife adults may have different views due to life experiences. The study aims to understand how conceptions of adulthood evolve from adolescence through midlife.The transition to adulthood was examined across three age groups: adolescents (13–19), emerging adults (20–29), and young-to-midlife adults (30–55). The study aimed to determine if conceptions of this transition varied among these groups. Individualistic criteria, such as accepting responsibility, deciding on beliefs and values, establishing equal relationships with parents, and financial independence, were considered most important by all age groups. Young-to-midlife adults were less likely than adolescents to view biological transitions as important, but more likely than adolescents or emerging adults to see norm compliance (e.g., avoiding drunk driving) as essential. Role transitions, like marriage, were considered least important in all groups. The study focused on the American majority culture, which is largely white and middle-class. It drew on anthropological, sociological, and psychological perspectives. Anthropologists emphasize marriage as a key transition, while sociologists highlight role transitions like education, employment, and parenthood. However, young Americans often view role transitions as less important. Psychological studies, however, show that individualistic criteria, such as responsibility and independence, are most valued. Compliance with social norms is also important. The transition is seen as long and gradual, spanning adolescence and emerging adulthood. This study examines how young-to-midlife adults view the transition to adulthood, comparing it to younger age groups. The research question was based on possible differences in perspectives, as young-to-midlife adults may have different views due to life experiences. The study aims to understand how conceptions of adulthood evolve from adolescence through midlife.