The Unspoken Measure of Adulthood

Australia’s census has concluded, showcasing our ability to navigate intrusive questioning under pressure. Now that this task is complete, it’s time to consider what the nation could be measuring next: our emotional and social intelligence.

The idea of tracking adults’ brain function through a standardized test may seem far-fetched, but it’s an intriguing concept worth examining. We often worry about the literacy and numeracy levels of younger generations, yet neglect our own intellectual and emotional development as adults. This oversight is puzzling, given that we’ve become accustomed to worrying about our children.

The notion that future generations will possess AI implants and superior intelligence raises interesting questions. However, this could also mean they’re less equipped to handle human social nuances. Meanwhile, adults are increasingly reliant on devices, losing touch with basic communication skills. A standardized test for adults would reveal their capacity for self-regulation and emotional control.

Adults struggle with everyday interactions, often resorting to digital crutches when faced with strangers or unfamiliar situations. For instance, how do we respond when a stranger tries to strike up conversation at the supermarket checkout? Do we maintain eye contact and engage in polite exchanges, or hastily retreat into our phones?

Criticism and feedback are also areas where adults falter. Can we take constructive comments professionally, or immediately react with defensiveness and social media rants? It’s telling that many of us seek reassurance from AI chatbots in such situations.

A test for adult emotional intelligence could also address technology use during focused periods, such as watching a 12-minute explanatory video for work. Do we stay engaged, or find ourselves distracted by other tabs and social media?

The census has demonstrated that Australians can come together when faced with a task. Why not harness this collective mobilization to tackle the pressing issues surrounding adulthood in our society? By tracking adults’ brain function, we might gain valuable insights into what it means to be emotionally intelligent and socially aware.

In an era where technological adaptation is constant, it’s becoming clear that these abilities are just as essential for adults as they are for children. It’s time for us to confront our own limitations and acknowledge the complexities of emotional intelligence in adulthood.

As we approach the 2026 census, perhaps it’s worth considering what questions will be asked beyond demographics. Can we create a tool that reveals more about the state of adulthood than just its statistics?