Young people in their late teens and early 20s stand at a pivotal point as they transition into adulthood. Although they typically have higher unemployment rates than older workers, the Great Recession and slow recovery have focused attention on the challenges young people face when progressing from adolescence and school into full-time employment enabling self-sufficiency. The following analysis and related interactive examine employment trends among teens aged 16—19 and young adults aged 20—24, and compares these groups with adults aged 25—54—those typically considered to be in their prime working years. Young adults are typically in a different phase and engage in a broader mix of activities.