Ethnic identity in Jewish families

Forty-eight Jewish families living in Central New York were interviewed abo ut the development of their ethnic identity. Within each family, parents an d children were asked about how they developed their ethnic identity to exp lore qualitatively how Jewish identity shapes and influences family dynamic s. The semi-structured family interviews were coded using a constant compar ison methodology. Seven qualitative categories emerged (gendered decisions, negotiating continuity, family of origin, survivors, active learning, trad itions, and cultural religion). Jewish identity formation in families and t he implications for clinical practice are explored.