A phenomenological exploration of the constructs of ‘home’ in Jewish emerging adults in gap-year programmes in Israel

Abstract

This phenomenological, qualitative study examines the construct of ‘home’ for Jewish emerging adults participating in a Jewish, semi-autonomous gap-year programme in Israel. Fifteen participants aged 18–22 were sampled from different gap-year programmes. Data were collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews including queries regarding participants' meaning of ‘home’ prior to embarking on the programme. Shared dimensions of home constructs included home in relation to a concrete place or places, and home in relation to significant others. Participants' emotional experience was predominantly referred to, including feelings such as acceptance, choice, comfort, stability and safety (regarding space), and love, acceptance, and commitment (regarding significant others). To a lesser degree, interconnections with time trajectories, serving to solidify definitions of home relating to space and significant others, were identified. Findings support a dynamic perception of the concept of home and reflect the reality of ever-changing accommodation with a frequent turnover of significant others in gap-year programmes.

Keywords::

• gap-year
• emerging adults
• Israel
• home
• qualitative study

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Assael Romanelli

Assael Romanelli, MSW, is a family therapist, currently working at the Community Mental Health Center, Hertzog Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel and in private practice. He combines action methods and psychodrama in his therapeutic work. Mr Romanelli has worked in the field of informal education and was the director of an international educational program in Israel.