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Abstract

In the introduction it was observed that youth is „the hope of the Church” and pastoral théologiens show concern with its penitential attitude. The article consists of four parts which develop the following thoughts: attempt to define metanoia, theological aspects of the penitential attitude, the experiencing of this attitude by young people, and pastoral conclusions. Having observed that the problem of metanoia lies primarily within the scope of theology, the article first explains the functioning of metanoia with reference to the psychological laws operating in the process of attitude-shaping. As for the definition of metanoia, it has been adopted after the Constitution “Paenitemini” that metanoia is “a relatively constant endeavour to improve one’s life thanks to which one begins to think and act being filled with the love of God”. It is emphasized that a good penitential attitude combines psychological and sociological elements and leads to a good confession. When dealing with the theological aspect of this attitude, the author discusses the characteristic features of the attitude, its elements, motivation, and its individual and social significance. The ways in which young people experience the penitential attitude are presented on the basis of the analysis of empirical date (over 200 students from the 1st and 4th year of secondary schools in groups equal with regard to sex and number). The factors taken into consideration were: 1. the religious consciousness of the subjects, i.e. understanding the consequences of deadly sin and the social and ecclesiastical significance of confession and 2. the manifestations of their penitential attitude, i.e. the attempt to improve their life, the difficulties they encounter, and the changes in behaviour they desire. The pastoral conclusions emphasize the role of spiritual guiedes, especially confessors. The conclusions contribute to a deeper understanding of the problem and offer practical suggestions.