The Rite of Initiation in The San Gabriel Mountains

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore how the individual experiences serve as rites of initiation for the adults who recreate in the San Gabriel Mountains. The study identified common themes within experiences that aligned with a rite of initiation as defined by depth psychology. The study utilized an interpretive phenomenological framework to analyze the experiences of participants who self-identified as recreationists of the San Gabriel Mountains. Participants shared their experiences of becoming a member of the community of recreationists of the San Gabriel Mountains through the rite of separation, the rite of transition, and the rite of incorporation. The rite of separation occurred through Type 2 Fun, from non-adventure to adventure. The rite of transition occurred through Personal Growth, from novice recreationist to experienced recreationist. Lastly, the rite of incorporation was identified in statements that endorsed a sense of belonging within the community of recreationists of the San Gabriel Mountains. The three superordinate themes identified through the analysis were: Type 2 Fun, Personal Growth, and Community. The subordinate theme identified was Trail Led to Trail Leadership. All participants identified Type 2 Fun as having served their Personal Growth and the strengthening of Community bonds.