Sub-culture & the Formation

• Definition: A subdivision within the dominant culture that has its own norms, beliefs, and values.

Some of the values are the same of the dominant culture, but others may vary.

Example: Amish community

• Subculture exist within a larger society, not apart from it

• A culture or way of life for people who ban together by the same morals, values, traditions living within mainstream society

*Sub-cultures seem to emerge when people in similar circumstances find themselves isolated from the mainstream or dominant culture.

Example: People recently released from prison

Need $$

Need protection

Can’t find work or a place to live

• Members of a sub-culture band together for mutual support

• Band together based on some shared characteristics (prison) or need (safety)

Example: Protection, status, a family, etc.

How do subcultures form?

Music

People interested in the same genre of music. Rockers, Screamo, Grunge, Country, Punk Rock, K-Pop, etc.

Clothing

Fashion styles like Emo, Goth, Skater, Preppy, Cosplay, Steampunk, etc.

Migrating Gangs

Gangs moving to increase numbers, to profit from drug selling, etc.

Traditions/Generations

Louisiana Creoles & Cajuns

Cultural/Religious Connections

Amish & Mormon community

Peer Pressure

Youth wanting to be accepted or being pressured by their peers to join gangs, skip class, drink alcohol, etc.

Brainwashed for a Cause (Cults)

The Manson Family, Heaven’s Gate, etc.

Born within the neighborhood or certain area

Eastside, Westside, Northside, Southside, etc.

Born within a certain family

Mob family, Yakuza, generational gang members