Psychology and Jewish Identity Education

Publication Date: January 1990

Publisher: American Jewish Committee

Author(s): Barry Chazan; Perry London

Research Area: Culture and religion; Education

Keywords: American Jews; Jewish education; Identity formation

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This essay focuses on the psychology of Jewish identity and its potential role in Jewish education. Two types of psychological theory might have valuable implications for Jewish identity education: the developmental and the social comparison approaches. These theories have not been elaborated in writings on Jewish identity, and they may help us reflect on some practical approaches to Jewish identity education.