Using @PostConstruct in an abstract class

[Denis Zjukow]

Hello. Is it possible to use @PostConstruct annotation on a non-abstract method of an abstract class? In our application the annotation works perfectly if is placed on a method of a managed bean. But it doesn't work if I pull it up in the class hierarchy. For example:

    
 
public abstract class AbstractParentBean {
 
  public AbstractParentBean() {
    super();
  }
 
  @PostConstruct
  public void init() {
    // do something...
  }
}
 

public class MyBean extends AbstractParentBean {
 
  public MyBean() {
    super();
  }
}
 

In this example method AbstractParentBean.init() is not invoked despite the fact it is marked with @PostConstruct. Is it incorrect to put @PostConstruct annotation on a parent class (abstract or non-abstract)?

[Zack Marrapese]

@PostConstruct will only work when the object is being managed by the container.

If a class isn't being managed, there isn't really a need for @PostConstruct, since there are no properties being set after construction, and what-not.

~Zack

[Denis Zjukow]

Zack, thanks for reply. The thing is that in my example class MyBean is managed by the container. And so is AbstractParentBean, as it is a "part" of MyBean. So I don't understand why the container doesn't call the init() method. In my opinion, there is no reason not to call it.