Rites of Passage

1
Rites of Passage

• Mark change in social status
• Examples
• Birth
• Maturity
• Death

2

• Common structure
• Separation
• Transition
• Reincorporation
• Often symbolized as death and rebirth

3
Puberty Ceremonies

• Mark adulthood
• Dramatize change in status
• Teach proper behavior and knowledge
• Test abilities and skills bravery, endurance,
  knowledge

4

• Dramatize and reinforce values
• Authority of elders
• Separation of sexes
• Group support in making the transition
• Community acceptance of new status
• Strengthen community solidarity

5
Puberty Ceremonies

• Boys ceremonies more often done in group
• Boys ceremonies more often traumatic
• Boys socialization more discontinuous