Book Reading #33 - Coming of Age in Samoa

Chapter 11: The Girl in Conflict

Summary:

This chapter talks about some of the Samoan girls who try to deviate from the traditional norms and find themselves in conflicts. Some girls deviate from the group to find more choices and freedom. These girls are classified as delinquents. The author talks about two girls named Lola and Mala who faced some conflicts. Mala once stole a toy which gave her a reputation of a thief. No one wanted to be around her since there is no security in Samoan houses. Lola was a quarrelsome and insubordinate girl who after her love affair accused her rival and called her thief. Such conflicts arose in the case of the girls who stayed on the outskirts of the town and at the pastor's house. Mead believes that lack of affection was the cause for such deviation in behavior.

Discussion:

I see significant similarity in the Samoan culture and the developed cultures of the world when it comes to human behavior. We often see and hear about young agitated adults who want to challenge the authority and enjoy more freedom get into conflicts with their parents, elders and the society. Similar behavior is seen in Samoan villages. I think this behavior is not influenced by religion or education, it's intrinsic human nature. Some are more rebellious than other.