A Theological-Pastoral Analysis of the Quarter-Life Crisis Phenomenon Among Today's Church Youth
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21724637Keywords:
anxiety, church youth, pastoral care, quarter-life crisis, vocational theologyAbstract
Quarter-life crisis (QLC) is a critical period of existential anxiety experienced by individuals aged 20–30 regarding their future career and relationships. This research aims to evaluate the QLC phenomenon among church youth through a theological-pastoral lens. Using a mixed-method approach (qualitative-descriptive supported by survey data from 40 respondents), the study found that social comparison on social media is the main trigger for anxiety (87%). Theologically, this crisis is interpreted not as a spiritual failure, but as a "wilderness moment" parallel to Elijah’s experience in 1 Kings 19. The research concludes that church pastoral intervention must shift from mere motivational preaching to deep existential accompaniment and "companioning" to mitigate social isolation. The findings suggest a new model of youth ministry that integrates mental health literacy and vocational theology.
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Copyright (c) 2022 Demas Arendra, Theo Pilus Candra (Author)
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