ABSTRACT
All cultures have markers or rites of passage that indicate when members are ready to move from one phase to the next phase of privileges and responsibilities. These markers include chronological age, governmental policies, and religious doctrine or traditions. They are usually reinforced through socialization and norms. Privileges such as dating, marriage, and parenthood are granted to an individual as he or she passes from and through the socially constructed phases of childhood and adolescence, and into adulthood. These privileges are based on the perceived maturity of the individual and are often considered individual decisions. When to allow one’s child to begin dating, when to get married, when to start a family, and how many children are desirable are decisions left to the individual. Or are they?
