Indiana Report Finds Young Men Struggling to Transition to Adulthood

Study cites economic turbulence, toxic masculinity, and loneliness as factors hindering young men's development

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:14pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, out-of-focus photograph showing the blurred silhouettes of several young men in casual settings, with warm, hazy pools of color and light, conveying a sense of isolation and difficulty navigating the path to adulthood.A new report highlights the struggles many young men in Indiana face in transitioning to adulthood, underscoring the need for greater support and mentorship.Indianapolis Today

A new report from the Indianapolis-based Sagamore Institute think tank found that many young men in Indiana are not on a productive path to adulthood, with a 'failure to launch' phenomenon occurring in their formative years. The study connected this issue to a range of factors, including economic instability, toxic masculinity norms, and an epidemic of loneliness driven by digital media.

Why it matters

The report highlights concerning trends around the mental health and development of young men in Indiana, with data showing that 80% of suicides in the country involve boys and men. Addressing the challenges facing this demographic could have significant impacts on individual wellbeing and community outcomes.

The details

The Sagamore Institute study discovered that the stress, anxiety, and trauma experienced by boys in childhood can have lasting effects if left unaddressed. Fewer mentors, the absence of father figures or male teachers, and a decline in sports leagues and youth organizations were also cited as contributing factors to young men struggling with the transition to adulthood. The report found that boys are more likely to turn to electronic socialization rather than in-person support when facing difficulties.

  • The Sagamore Institute report was published on March 31, 2026.

The players

Sagamore Institute

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

Teresa Lubbers

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

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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 Sagamore Institute 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 youth development.

The takeaway

This study highlights the critical need to address the unique challenges facing young men in Indiana, from mental health support to fostering healthy social connections, in order to help them successfully transition into adulthood and lead fulfilling lives.