Coming of age rituals have existed across cultures for thousands of years. In modern Australia, traditions that have been preserved, adapted or newly created now exist side by side. But do young people still need a meaningful way to mark the transition into adulthood?
For many Australians, milestones such as formals, Schoolies or turning 18 are seen as markers of growing up.
But according to Dr Arne Rubinstein, founder of the Rites of Passage Institute, these modern milestones do not always provide the same sense of meaning, guidance or community that traditional rites of passage once offered.
Unfortunately, in Australia we have ... a lot of unhealthy markers into adulthoodDr Arne Rubinstein
"They're things like getting drunk on your 18th birthday, or losing your virginity in any way you can, or in some places it's actually getting in a fight or even going to jail," he said.
Many migrant communities continue to celebrate coming of age traditions in Australia, balancing life in a new country with customs passed down through generations.
While the rituals themselves may look different, researchers say they often serve a similar purpose.
Jo Kingsman, an educator and researcher at the Queensland University of Technology, said rites of passage create a rare opportunity for young people to step away from everyday life and reflect.
They have intentional time to investigate who they are and their role in the world.Dr Jo Kingsman
In this episode of SBS Examines, we ask: what is the role of rites of passage in Australia?
This episode is a collaboration with SBS Hebrew, with additional production by SBS Spanish and SBS Japanese.
