Think Of And Describe A Group That Could Be Considered A Sub

Think Of And Describe A Group That Could Be Considered A Subculture O

Think of and describe a group that could be considered a subculture (or counterculture). (If you choose to write about a counterculture, be sure to identify it as such.) Why should this group be considered a subcultural group? Identify some of the beliefs, norms (folkways, mores, and laws), and values that are associated with this particular cultural group and how they differ from and/or are similar to the dominant culture within which the subculture exists. Is this subculture identified with a particular social class? Explain.

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The subculture I have chosen to examine is the skateboarding community, which can be classified as a distinct subculture within mainstream society. Skateboarding originated as a recreational activity in the 1950s and 1960s among California youth but has evolved into a vibrant cultural subunit with its own norms, values, and social practices. While it shares some similarities with the dominant culture, it also maintains unique characteristics that set it apart, qualifying it as a subculture.

Skateboarding communities are defined by their shared passion for the sport, distinctive styles, and a set of beliefs centered around individualism, creativity, and resistance to mainstream societal norms. The group values self-expression through tricks, style, and attitude, often emphasizing authenticity over commercial success. These core values contrast with the mainstream culture that tends to prioritize conformity, material success, and adherence to traditional social norms.

Beliefs within the skateboarding subculture often revolve around the importance of personal innovation, authenticity, and the rejection of corporate or commercial influences that threaten their independence. For instance, many skaters prefer to maintain a DIY ethic, creating their own setups or building their own skate spots, which demonstrates their value for self-reliance and autonomy.

Norms within this subculture encompass folkways, mores, and laws, which shape their social behaviors. Folkways include dress codes—such as baggy pants, skate shoes, and T-shirts with logos or graffiti—and specific gestures or signaling within the community. Mores involve attitudes toward legality and property—skateboarders often push the boundaries of private property, which can lead to conflicts with law enforcement and landowners. Laws generally prohibit skateboarding in certain areas like sidewalks or public streets; however, skaters frequently challenge these restrictions to maintain their ability to practice freely, highlighting a differential adherence to societal rules based on their subcultural norms.

Values central to the skateboarding community include creativity, resilience, and individualism. The subculture promotes a non-conformist attitude, often emphasizing personal growth through the pursuit of difficult tricks and overcoming failures. Skateboarding also fosters camaraderie, community support, and a sense of identity among its members, which differ from the individualistic nature of some dominant societal values.

Regarding social class, skateboarders often come from diverse economic backgrounds, but there has historically been a strong association with working-class youth. The affordability of skateboards compared to other sports equipment makes it accessible to lower-income adolescents. However, as skateboarding gained popularity and commercialization grew, it increasingly attracted middle-class and even upper-class participants who could afford specialized gear, skate parks, and professional sponsorships. Despite this diversification, skateboarding remains rooted in working-class ethos of rebellion and anti-establishment sentiment.

In conclusion, the skateboarding community exemplifies a subculture characterized by unique beliefs, norms, and values that differentiate it from the dominant culture. Its emphasis on individualism, creativity, and resistance to mainstream norms defines its identity. While coming from varied social backgrounds, historically, it aligns closely with working-class values, although commercialization has broadened its social composition. Recognizing skateboarding as a subculture highlights how hobbies and leisure activities can foster distinct social identities with their own norms and values.

References

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