by Tara Haddad – Staff Writer
Adolescence is a period characterized by uncertainty and change. In this period, young adults begin to understand their place within society, and several factors begin to take shape in their lives. However, while some aspects of their life may crystallize fully at this stage, others continue evolving. The nature of spirituality is diverse and continues to progress across generations. Over the years, however, there seems to be a reduction in the breadth and depth of spiritual engagement among adolescents. Compared to their older counterparts, teenagers are less inclined towards spirituality and more likely to identify as atheists or agnostics. Although adolescents are less likely to believe in God, that does not mean they reject spirituality completely. Younger generations are deviating from traditional religion and embracing a spirituality that resonates with their personal experiences. Perhaps the vibrancy of adolescent spirituality is not diminishing, but rather, evolving.
While some may use the terms religion and spirituality interchangeably, a more in-depth look shows where the two differ. While most religions emphasize spiritualism as a central component of faith, being spiritual does not necessarily denote religiosity. For instance, spirituality encompasses an individual’s personal journey to connect with the divine. This personal quest is bound by no rules and is often experienced in solitude. Religion, on the other hand, involves large groups of people sharing a common belief. The practice of religion often involves pre-established rules and rituals.
The question of whether spirituality is ‘thinning-out’ among younger generations is complex and can vary among cultural and socioeconomic contexts. While it is true that organized and traditional religions may be experiencing a decline in certain regions, it does not necessarily mean that spirituality itself is diminishing. Younger generations are driven towards more individualistic and diverse spiritual approaches, rather than adhering to established religious institutions. They may explore alternative areas, such as meditation and mindfulness, and seek spiritual frameworks that emphasize self-discovery and growth.
Research findings reveal a distinct longitudinal pattern beginning with the generation preceding 1928, wherein a gradual decline in the prioritization of conservation values and a simultaneous upsurge in the embrace of openness to change have been identified as prominent drivers behind the observed decline in religiosity within societies (Koscielniak et al., 2022). However, it is essential to consider the socio-cultural environments in which the older and younger generations were nurtured, as this plays a pivotal role in elucidating the observed decline in religiosity.
For instance, the Matures (born between 1928 and 1945), experienced the Great Depression and World War II. Amidst uncertainty and turmoil, many sought a profound sense of clarity and inner peace through religion. The Matures are widely recognized for their diligent work ethic and unwavering dedication. They exhibit a strong inclination to uphold long standing traditions and an acceptance of authority. They value conservation and conformity more than younger generations, such as Millennials (born between 1977 and 1997), who are characterized as independent, innovative, adaptable, and change-oriented (Tapscott, 2009). Younger generations, however, tend to shift towards individualistic, self-enhancement, and change-oriented values (Marcus et al., 2017). This could be attributed to the increase in technology and emphasis on education, alongside a dynamically changing society (Gong et al., 2018).
Although there is a noticeable contrast in religious adherence between older generations and Millennials and younger generations, the latter are equally inclined to participate in a wide range of spiritual practices. These include thinking about the meaning and purpose of life, as well as feeling a deep sense of curiosity about the universe at least once a week (Pew Research Center, 2015). In an increasingly expanding world, with access to several different forms of spirituality, adolescents can benefit from a wide selection of different beliefs. When faced with many options, they may feel as though selecting one religion is inconvenient. Spirituality allows adolescents to relish the benefits organized religion has to offer, such as social connections and moral guidance, without the parts that contradict their personal beliefs. Through shaping their worldview, adolescents cultivate personalized spiritual journeys, allowing them to embrace a belief system that truly resonates with their core being.
Adolescence marks a transformative phase where young adults navigate their evolving identities. While religious engagement may wane among adolescents compared to older generations, it is essential to distinguish between religion and spirituality. Young individuals are increasingly drawn to spirituality, seeking personal connections with the divine and exploring alternative paths beyond traditional religious institutions. This shift reflects their desire for individualistic approaches that emphasize self-discovery and growth. Undoubtedly, the ability to tailor spirituality to an individual’s needs will continue to flourish for as long as adolescents are trying to understand the complexities of the world in which they live.
References
Koscielniak, M., Bojanowska, A. & Gasiorowska, A. Religiosity Decline in Europe: Age, Generation, and the Mediating Role of Shifting Human Values. J Relig Health (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-022-01670-x
Gong, B., Ramkissoon, A., Greenwood, R. A., & Hoyte, D. S. (2018). The Generation for Change: Millennials, Their Career Orientation, and Role Innovation. Journal of Managerial Issues, 30(1), 82–96. http://www.jstor.org/stable/45176570
Marcus, J., Ceylan, S., & Ergin, C. (2017). Not so “traditional” anymore? Generational shifts on Schwartz values in Turkey. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 48(1), 58–74. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022022116673909