Van Gennep's Rites of Passage

Van Gennep's Rites of Passage describe the rituals people go through during significant life changes, such as birth, puberty, marriage, or death. These rituals typically have three phases: separation (detaching from the old status), transition (a limbo phase where individuals are between roles), and incorporation (adopting new roles or identities). They serve to help individuals and communities mark important transitions, reinforce social bonds, and acknowledge personal growth. This framework helps us understand how cultures manage change and ensure societal stability during life's key milestones.