Quarter-Life Crisis and Perceived Stress: A Correlational Research

Abstract

The present research aimed to examine the relationship between the subscales of the quarter-life crisis and perceived stress among emerging adults. A sample of 71 individuals aged 18 to 29 years was selected to represent this developmental stage. Participants completed two standardized tools: the Developmental Crisis Questionnaire (DCQ-12; Petrov et al., 2022) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10; Cohen & Williamson, 1988). Findings revealed that the Disconnection and Distress, as well as the Lack of Clarity and Control subscales, were significantly and positively correlated with perceived stress, indicating that emotional disconnection and uncertainty in life direction contribute to psychological distress in early adulthood. Conversely, the Turning Point and Transition subscale showed a weak, non-significant negative correlation, suggesting that not all transitions are essentially distressing. These results highlight the multidimensional nature of the quarter-life crisis and its relation with the perceived stress of emerging adults.