The study examines conceptions of the transition to adulthood across three age groups: adolescents (13-19), emerging adults (20-29), and young-to-midlife adults (30-55). The focus is on whether young-to-midlife adults have different perspectives compared to younger age groups. Individualistic criteria, such as accepting responsibility, making independent decisions, and financial independence, are considered important markers of adulthood across all age groups. However, young-to-midlife adults are less likely to view biological transitions as significant and more likely to emphasize norm compliance, such as avoiding drunk driving. Role transitions, like marriage, are ranked lowest in importance across all groups. The study highlights the shift in perspectives from younger to older adults, suggesting that while some criteria remain consistent, others may change over time.The study examines conceptions of the transition to adulthood across three age groups: adolescents (13-19), emerging adults (20-29), and young-to-midlife adults (30-55). The focus is on whether young-to-midlife adults have different perspectives compared to younger age groups. Individualistic criteria, such as accepting responsibility, making independent decisions, and financial independence, are considered important markers of adulthood across all age groups. However, young-to-midlife adults are less likely to view biological transitions as significant and more likely to emphasize norm compliance, such as avoiding drunk driving. Role transitions, like marriage, are ranked lowest in importance across all groups. The study highlights the shift in perspectives from younger to older adults, suggesting that while some criteria remain consistent, others may change over time.