Subcultural Theory Overview

Study Notes

Subcultural Theory Overview

Subcultural theory posits that certain groups develop distinct norms and values contrasting with mainstream society.
It explains higher delinquency rates among working-class males as a response to societal issues not encountered by others.
The theory suggests that these subcultures arise due to societal pressures and frustrations experienced by particular groups.

Support for Subcultural Theory

Reiner highlights 'canteen culture' within police forces, suggesting a macho and homogeneous mindset that leads to biased targeting of specific groups, especially ethnic minorities.
Bernstein points out that middle-class children use an 'elaborated code' which helps them navigate legal situations, leading to disparities in punishment frequency seen in working-class subcultures.

Criticisms of Subcultural Theory

Reiner argues that police culture influences deviance more than subcultural factors.
Feminists criticize the theory for being gender-biased, overlooking women's experiences and perspectives.
Marxists believe the theory ignores broader class oppression and inequalities.
Matzas emphasizes a lack of distinctive values among working-class youth.
Donnes claims young, working-class males often reflect a dissociation from mainstream societal values instead of adhering to a unique subculture.

Cohen's Delinquent Subculture

Albert Cohen focuses on working-class crime, highlighting that delinquency is often driven by thrill rather than financial gain.
Cohen describes 'status frustration' as a reaction of lower-class boys who fail to achieve middle-class aspirations, leading them to invert accepted values through delinquent behavior.
Schools serve as critical settings for this frustration, often reinforcing feelings of inadequacy.

Criticisms of Cohen's Theory

Critics argue that it is unrealistic to assume boys consciously identify and reject middle-class values.

Support for Cohen's Theory

Paul Willis's study of 'the lads' illustrates that boys recognized their inevitable academic failure, leading to rejection of school authority and rules as a coping mechanism, aligning with Cohen's ideas regarding lower-class males and their social behaviors.

Cloward and Ohlin's Opportunity Structures

Cloward and Ohlin expanded on Merton's strain theory, introducing the concepts of legitimate and illegitimate opportunity structures.
They identified three main adaptations within subcultures:
- Criminal subculture: includes established successful role models in local crime.
- Conflict subculture: centered around violence and aggression; lacks cohesive organization.
- Retreatist subculture: comprised of individuals who resort to drug use and escapism, often failing in both legitimate and illegitimate avenues.

Description

Explore the dynamics of subcultural theory which highlights how certain groups form distinct norms that differ from mainstream society. This quiz discusses the implications of societal pressures, the impact of 'canteen culture' in police forces, and critiques surrounding the theory, including gender perspectives. Test your understanding of these complex sociological concepts.