The authors describe and analyze a disturbing phenomenon of the past decade: the increasing numbers of "successful, bright, attractive" young adults presenting for treatment of depression, depair, and "emptiness." Recent studies of normal adolescent populations appear to reveal less turmoil than before, but young adult life appears "sicker and more miserable." The authors use clinical examples to illustrate and expand upon their hypothesis that young adults of the '80's have developed an over-reliance on the self as the source of meaning in life. Without the "traditional" sources of support from extended family, revered mentors, reliably institutionalized ethical codes, even clear sexual roles, these people create ego ideals they can never attain. The result is chronic depression in the presence of apparent "success."