There is growing anxiety about entering a job market where entry-level roles are being reshaped by automation and AI.
Despite these challenges, there is a strong current of resilience. Many 18-year-olds find hope in: Teens' future plans and goals | Pew Research Center teens 18yo
The prefrontal cortex—responsible for decision-making and self-control—is still developing at 18, making this group naturally more sensitive to stress and emotional overload. There is growing anxiety about entering a job
Among Black teens, 50% say they'll attend a four-year college (not significantly different from White or Hispanic teens). In turn, Pew Research Center Anticipated Youth Mental Health Trends in 2026 teens 18yo