Rituals are habitual actions that ofter are highly organized, controlled and often announce membership or a status change of an individual in a group (Sims & Stephens 2011, pg 99).

In this context the ritual of the Namahage might provide a few insights into the roles of the people involved.  

While enthusiasm for this ritual might be waning to some people, the Namahage still holds social value. 

For the young men who participate as the Namahage, they seek to make costumes that will gain them praise and treats (Yamamoto 1978, pg 131). It might also lead to an increase in status for men participating as the Namahage (Foster 2013, pg 306).

The ritual also allows some social roles to be explored and strengthened.  Since the head of households play themselves, this gives the younger men who may one day be in a position of authority the opportunity in that role.  The reminders of the visiting Namahage also promotes obedience from the children, order in the social organizations and solidarity.(Yamamoto 1978, pg 132)

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