Creating Meaning in Young Adulthood

Christopher J. Kazanjian, PhD, is an associate professor of educational psychology at El Paso Community College and author of Empowering Children: A Multicultural Humanistic Approach. He is currently the program director of the after-school program Kidz n’ Coaches-El Paso.

"Creating Meaning in Young Adulthood presents an innovative approach for understanding the potential of working towards self-actualizing relationships for young adults in existential crises. Young adults are our future, and this book offers a guide for ways to live consciously and to tend to our most sacred and spiritual relationships. Christopher Kazanjian adapts the humanistic philosophy of Carl Rogers to a modern world of complex challenges."Terri Goslin-Jones, PhD, REACE faculty in psychology/creativity studies at Saybrook University"Creating Meaning in Young Adulthood provides a timely discussion of ways that COVID-19 has disrupted the lives of young people around the world and the resources that young people have used to bolster well-being in the face of these challenges. Meaningful insights into ways that social relationships, nature, animals, volunteerism, and even solitude can bolster well-being are provided through a synthesis of scientific research and in-depth case studies with young people."Jennifer E. Lansford, PhD, research professor at the Center for Child and Family Policy at Duke University"Dr. Kazanjian shows how empathy and care are central to a multicultural humanistic approach. Furthermore, Kazanjian’s inclusion of humanist philosophy highlights the value of relationships across the age spectrum. His multicultural humanistic approach enlightens the constant state ‘becoming young adults’ endure during the early 21st-century/COVID-19 era. This is a timely book that educators should engage with as they build relationships with young adults."David Rutledge, PhD, associate professor in the School of Teacher Preparation, Administration, and Leadership at New Mexico State University"What is most important in life? Relationships. Building positive, nurturing, and growth-promoting relationships is what has helped human beings to thrive. How do we teach young adults this life-changing skill? Dr. Kazanjian’s book is the perfect companion. It is a practical guide to obtaining clarity and being able to truly connect with young people and help them realize their unique potential in our challenging global community."Mayra Cordero, founder and sustainable happiness coach of TheHappyRs

• Part I, 1. Young Adulthood in the End of Times, 2. Multicultural Humanistic Psychology, 3. Existential Terror and Necessary Distractions, 4. Constellations within the Darkness: Growth-Promoting Relationships, 5. The Bold Companionship of Defeat, 6. Healing, Growth, and Enlightenment, Part II, 7. Creating Meaning with the Natural World, 8. Precious Silence of Solitude, 9. Volunteer Group Activity, 10. The Nature of Growth-Promoting Relationships, Conclusion