5.20.2007
The Continuing Rise of Teen Witches
The Independent takes a look at the phenomena of teenage Witches in the UK, which according to recent studies is still on the rise.
"Record numbers of young women are dabbling in witchcraft, fuelling a boom in sales of spell books and other pagan paraphernalia, according to new research. A study of teenagers and their consumption of books, magazines, kits, film and other media found that there are some 700,000 internet sites for teenage witches. The Pagan Federation claims to have several hundred inquiries a week from young people, and has set up a network for those under 18. "There has been a noticeable rise in the number of young people identifying themselves as witches," said Denise Cush, professor of religious studies at Bath Spa University."
Denise Cush has two studies relating to teen Witches in the UK, "Wise young women: beliefs, values and influences in the adoption of Witchcraft by teenage girls in England" that appears in a new book edited by Hannah E. Johnston and Peg Aloi, and "Consumer witchcraft: are teenage witches a creation of commercial interests?" which appears in the latest issue of the Journal of Beliefs & Values. Cush says that a main factor in drawing (mostly female) teens to Witchcraft is its tolerant and woman-friendly attitudes.
"According to Professor Cush's report, based on interviews with witches aged 18 to 24, it is the attitude to women that most attracts them: 'Paganism and witchcraft appealed because of their clear feminist credentials and absence of homophobia. A main attraction is the positive valuation of women in comparison with other religions.'"
This data along with other studies done recently in America point to a continuing and growing interest in modern Pagan faiths by younger men and women. These newcomers aren't merely overzealous "Buffy" fans (as some claim), but are making serious considerations about their religious path. This seems to back up claims that Wicca, and modern Paganism in general, will continue to grow at a healthy rate and will soon become a faith category impossible to ignore within the mainstream.
Labels: Denise Cush, teens, UK, Wicca, Witchcraft
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