What Does Positive Social Functioning Entail for Emerging Adults? A Scoping Review

No unifying or explicit definition of positive social functioning exists within the health literature, rather dysfunction is the focus. This research examines the conceptualization and operationalizations of non-dysfunctional social functioning in emerging adults. A scoping review following Joanna Briggs Institute's methodology was conducted. Criteria were developed using the Participants, Concept, and Context framework. <i>Participants</i>: Individuals 16-29 years old. <i>Concept</i>: Social functioning in humans. <i>Context</i>: Social sciences. Thirty-seven studies published within the social science literature between 1990 and 2021 were included. Examination of variables used by included studies yielded a new multi-level definition of social functioning that is focused on positive functioning, rather than on dysfunction. This study introduces a novel, multi-level definition of social functioning in emerging adulthood, highlighting measurable components that can guide interventions and research fostering positive social functioning and participation.