Autobiographies of B'nai Mitzvah: The Meaning of B'nai Mitzvah and the Role Adolescents Believe Adults Play in the Process. Issue 2 (2nd April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schwartz, Katherine
• Is Part Of: Journal of Jewish education. Volume 86:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 164
• Page End: 195
• Publication Date: 2020-04-02
• Subjects: b'nai mitzvah -- adolescence -- teens; Jews -- Education -- Periodicals; Jews -- Education -- United States -- Periodicals; Jewish religious education -- Periodicals; 370.89924073
• DOI: 10.1080/15244113.2020.1764884
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1524-4113

Abstract

ABSTRACT: B'nai mitzvah is a significant motivation for engagement in Jewish education. Professionals and families devote resources in aiding young people in becoming b'nai mitzvah. This article examines the adolescent narratives of b'nai mitzvah and the ways in which adults feature in their stories. Their accounts surface a belief that adults support them through pep talks, expressions of pride, helping them make choices, and being with them through the process. Teens see themselves responsible for their choices and achievements, but are appreciative of support. This article raises questions about what ways and by whom adolescents should be guided and supported.