The use of social media, and namely Facebook, is becoming more common — and even integral — to the Amish's Rumspringa.
Rumspringa, a German word literally meaning “to run around,” is a time when Amish youths experience the modern world and decide if they want to be baptized or leave the Amish community. It usually begins at age 16, and ends with baptism or leaving the community.
Recent coverage of Rumspringa in the media has shown Amish youths in more extreme circumstances, but others say that those representations are not accurate.
“Some portrayals of Rumspringa have depicted the time as one of wild partying, though this is the exception rather than the norm,” Amish America says.
But images of Amish youths taking “selfies” or drinking alcohol while wearing traditional Amish clothing still surface on Facebook.
Rumspringa is a time to find a spouse, Amish America says, and many view Facebook as a tool for meeting new people.
According to The Fix, texting and social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Meetme and are also popular among teens during Rumspringa.
Despite what media portrayal may suggest, a majority of Amish youths — 85-90 percent, Amish America reports — decide to be baptized.
Abby Stevens is an intern for the DeseretNews.com Faith and Family sections. She is a recent graduate of Brigham Young University-Idaho. Contact Abby at astevens@deseretdigital.com.