Personal and Group Identity Processes of Americans and Israelis in a Cross-Continental Educational Journey

In this research, we explore the processes of identity change that occurred among nine Israeli adolescents during a unique educational program. A group comprised of both Israeli and American adolescents embarked on a journey across continents aiming to strengthen both their personal and Jewish identities. We investigated the processes of change experienced by the participants and the factors they reported that led to these changes. Participants indicated that the processes of change were influenced by the places they visited but, more significantly, by their interpersonal and group interactions. They reported changes in perceptions of personal and familial identity, as well as in perceptions of religious and national identity. The findings provide insights into how encounters with others impact identity formation processes, facilitate self-exploration, and foster changes in both personal and broader dimensions of identity.