The Correct Terminology: Vicenarian and Beyond
When a person crosses the threshold of their teenage years, they officially enter their twenties, a decade often referred to simply as the 'twenties'. However, more formal and descriptive terms exist depending on the context.
Vicenarian: The Formal Name
For a precise, formal term, a person aged between 20 and 29 is called a 'vicenarian'. This word derives from the Latin viceni, meaning 'twenty each,' and follows a pattern for designating decades of age, such as tricenarian for a person in their thirties.
Young and Emerging Adulthood: A Developmental Lens
Beyond formal titles, the period a 20 year old occupies is often discussed in developmental psychology. Researchers like Jeffrey Arnett have coined the term 'emerging adulthood' to describe the period from the late teens through the twenties. This stage is defined by identity exploration, instability, self-focus, and feeling 'in-between'.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also uses the term 'Youth' to describe the 15-24 age group, overlapping with the early twenties. Organizations like the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine explicitly define young adulthood as including ages 18-25, highlighting the continued developmental needs during this time.
The State of a 20-Year-Old's Health
Though often associated with peak physical health, the twenties are a critical decade for establishing habits that impact long-term wellness. It is a time when the body is in excellent condition, but poor lifestyle choices can begin to lay the groundwork for future health issues.
Physical Health in Early Adulthood
Physiologically, a 20-year-old is at a peak, having completed growth and development, but the brain is still maturing until around age 25. Key health goals include regular exercise, a balanced diet, building bone density, and avoiding substance use.
Mental Health in Early Adulthood
The twenties can be a period of significant mental health challenges with high rates of anxiety and depression among young adults. Common stressors include academic and career pressure, identity and purpose concerns, and social and financial worries. Developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential.
Comparison of Developmental Stage Terminology
To better understand the different ways a 20-year-old is categorized, this table compares different terminologies based on context.
| Term | Age Range | Context | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vicenarian | 20-29 years | Formal/Decade | Formal term for someone in their twenties. |
| Young Adult | 18-34 years (US Census) | Demographics/Marketing | Broader, covers a wider age range for statistical or marketing purposes. |
| Emerging Adult | 18-29 years | Developmental Psychology | Focuses on the psychological and social transitions during this exploratory phase. |
| Youth | 15-24 years (WHO) | Global Health/Statistics | A public health term encompassing adolescence and early twenties. |
| Early Adulthood | 20-39 years | Human Development | A broader term for the initial stages of the adult life cycle. |
Building Healthy Habits for a Lifetime
Your twenties are a powerful time to invest in your future health. Here is a list of actionable tips:
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night for overall health.
- Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
- Manage Stress Effectively: Learn coping mechanisms like mindfulness, exercise, or therapy.
- Limit Screen Time: Be mindful of social media and screen use impact on mood and self-esteem.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity is vital for long-term health and mood.
- Establish a Financial Plan: Managing money can reduce stress.
- Maintain Social Connections: Nurture relationships with family and friends for mental well-being.
- Wear Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun helps prevent premature aging and skin cancer.
- Consider Strength Training: Building muscle and bone density in your twenties is crucial for preventing osteoporosis later in life.
- Choose Non-Plastic Food Containers: Avoid heating food in plastic to minimize exposure to potential endocrine disruptors.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no single, all-encompassing term for what a 20 year old is called. Depending on the context, they can be accurately referred to as a vicenarian, a young adult, or an emerging adult. Regardless of the label, this decade is a unique and pivotal period. Investing in physical and mental well-being now builds a solid foundation for a healthy and fulfilling future, as the habits formed in your twenties have a powerful, cumulative effect on the decades to come.
