Threefold ritual pattern of separation, transition, and reincorporation in African coming-of-age ceremonies¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The paper describes African initiation ceremonies as following a three-part ritual structure: rites of separation, a middle liminal phase of transition, and reincorporation. It states that "Typically, this is accomplished through a threefold ritual pattern consisting of rites of separation, transition, and reincorporation." The liminal middle phase is where "children are made into adults" through symbolic destruction of the old and creation of the new. The paper uses this framework to ground the design of the Simba Wachanga program.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Rituals must mark fixed and meaningful transformations in the life cycle, the ecological and temporal cycle, and accession to high office

Constraints¶

• The paper notes the pure form of the coming-of-age ceremony has disappeared from all but the most traditional and isolated societies

Target Learners¶

• African-American male adolescents entering adulthood

Target Learning Objectives¶

• Moral and mental disposition toward adult social responsibility
• Cultural identity and membership

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

Examples¶

• Simba Wachanga rites-of-passage program for African-American boys
• Admission structured as a rite of passage combining rituals and constructivist therapy
• Conduct admissions as a gradual therapeutic process examining needs, forming relationships, involving supports, and celebrating arrival

Key Sources¶

• Hill, Paul, Jr. (1987). Passage to Manhood: Rearing the Male African-American Child. ERIC. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED287966