pupil identities

What are pupil identities?

• How pupils see themselves and how others see them in school

Which sociological perspective is most interested in pupil identities?

• Postmodernism

How can pupil identities be linked to other school processes?

• Through teacher labelling and pupil subcultures

What influences do pupils bring to school that shape identity?

• Gender, ethnicity, social class, family background

How do schools shape pupil identities?

• Through interactions with teachers and other pupils

What do postmodernists argue about identity?

• Identity is increasingly a matter of personal choice

Which sociologist described modern identities as tribes?

• Maffesoli (1997)

What does the ‘time of the tribes’ mean?

• People join groups based on the lifestyle and consumption patterns

What often shapes pupil groups in modern schools?

• Music tastes, fashion, hobbies or interests

Give example of identity groups in schools?

• Groups based on fashion

• E.g. Elmo’s

What is meant by fluid identities?

• Identities can change over time and across situations