This chapter explores the contemporary utility of ritual transition theory (Van Gennep [1909], 1960). Drawing on qualitative data generated during a longitudinal ethnographic study of men’s transition to fatherhood, the paper describes how the three phases associated with the theory - separation, transition and re-incorporation - provide insight into men’s transition to contemporary fatherhood. It is argued therefore, that despite its earlier structural-functionalist roots the theory remains a valuable and relevant framework illuminating contemporary transitions across the life course
