Adolescents Need a Rite of Passage to Ease Them into Adulthood
Key Points
Tim Lott's Perspective: The author argues that adolescents need structured rites of passage to transition into adulthood.
Current Issues: Without such rituals, some young people join gangs, and others engage in harmful behaviors like self-harm and eating disorders.
A Band of Brothers
Organization’s Mission: Provides rites of passage for young men, often involved in gang life, by giving them male mentors and separating them from their community.
Goals: Instill confidence and promote emotional intelligence, addressing the destructive potential in young men.
Historical Context of Rites of Passage
Traditional Rites:
In the past, boys would undergo separation, transition, and reincorporation into society, often through military service.
Physical challenges and survival tasks were common.
Girls’ Rites: Often involved temporary separation from the male community or, unfortunately, harmful practices like genital mutilation.
Modern-Day Transition Markers
Examples: Transition from primary to secondary school, university life, driving tests, and gaining certificates.
Limitations: While these exist, they are not communal rituals but more individual milestones.
The Consequences of Absence of Rites
Youth Initiated Rites:
Girls may get pregnant to prove fertility.
Boys may engage in gang violence to demonstrate manhood.
Cultural Symbols: Clothing, tattoos, and piercings as modern markers of transition.
Proposed Solutions
Community-Based Programs:
Suggests creating groups similar to A Band of Brothers for girls to address issues like teenage pregnancy and self-harm.
Importance of addressing these needs publicly, not just privately.
Conclusions
Need for Societal Engagement: The article stresses the need for society to address the inherent need for rites of passage, which remains even as cultures evolve.
Potential Directions: Encourages the creation of new, non-violent, and inclusive rites that align with modern values to fulfill these ancient needs.