NCJ Number
116097
Date Published
1987
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This report examines the scope of Jewish youth groups and describes innovative local community program models.
Abstract
During adolescence, the developmental process is a time of significant emotional, physical, and cognitive growth, during which the child and parents must renegotiate their sense of power, control, responsibility, and autonomy. In the search for self-definition, adolescents interact with their environment, and the peer group increasingly dominates the adolescent's thinking and behavior and serves as an important catalyst for identity development, both Jewish and personal. In addition to traditional synagogue youth groups offering a variety of religious, social, educational, and recreational activities, some communities have developed programs offering innovative opportunities for Jewish youth. The Jewish Public School Youth program offers films, lectures, holiday celebrations, and music programs. The National Conference of Synagogue Youth has undertaken a Jewish video project. Other programs have conducted charity drives, provided inexpensive travel opportunities, and developed Jewish community centers with youth programs. Others provide programs and services to youth with special needs including the developmentally disabled, substance abusers, suicidal teens, and those from single-parent families. 15 references.