Indiana Report Finds Young Men Struggling to Transition to Adulthood

Study cites economic turbulence, toxic masculinity, and loneliness as factors holding back young men in the state.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:46am

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A new report from an Indiana-based think tank found that many young men in the state are not on a productive path to adulthood, with issues like economic difficulties, toxic masculinity, and an epidemic of loneliness contributing to a 'failure to launch' for this demographic. The study connected these challenges to alarming statistics around male suicide rates and lack of support systems for young men.

Why it matters

The report highlights the critical need to address the developmental and mental health struggles facing young men in Indiana, which can have long-term negative impacts if left unaddressed. Identifying the root causes and potential solutions is an important step in supporting this population and setting them up for success in adulthood.

The details

The Indianapolis-based Sagamore Institute's study found that difficulties charting educational and career paths, as well as factors like economic turbulence, toxic masculinity, and an epidemic of loneliness brought on by digital media, are hindering the development of young men in the state. The report also connected these challenges to high suicide rates among boys and men.

  • The study was released on March 30, 2026.

The players

Sagamore Institute

An Indiana-based think tank that conducted the report on the struggles of young men in the state.

Teresa Lubbers

The president of the Sagamore Institute and a key spokesperson for the report's findings.

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What they’re saying

“We saw that about 80% of the suicides in this country are boys and men. All of this data caused us to say, 'Why, and what can we do about it?'”

— Teresa Lubbers, President, Sagamore Institute

“Boys are more likely, unfortunately, to find their needs filled on screen. Girls are more likely to get help if they're depressed. Boys are more likely to think that they should be strong and not need help, and so they become isolated.”

— Teresa Lubbers, President, Sagamore Institute

What’s next

The report recommended that Indiana lawmakers consider legislation on the responsible use of social media, and that philanthropic groups provide funding for organizations assisting with male growth and development.

The takeaway

This report shines a light on the critical challenges facing young men in Indiana, from mental health struggles to lack of support systems, and underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to help this demographic successfully transition to adulthood.