Subcultural Theories Explanations Flashcards
1
Q
What are the subcultural theorists?
A
Functionalists: Cohen, Cloward and Ohlin, Miller
Neo Marxist: P. Cohen
2
Q
What does Cloward & Ohlin discuss?
A
- They believe deviance is a reaction to failing to achieve mainstream culture.
- They face ‘blocked opportunities’ in achieving money/status legitimately and so turn to deviance.
- Criminal, Conflict, and Retreatist subcultures form in response.
3
Q
What does functionalist Cohen discuss?
A
- He says that youth deviance is non utilitarian (not committed for profit) and is associated with short-term hedonism. (instant pleasure seeking).
- Working class boys are aware of mainstream values of financial and academic success and how you can gain status from this.
- He found working class boys that cling to these values will see themself as inferior which creates ‘status frustration’.
- In a deviant subculture, status may be achieved in the eyes of peers where they can look down on middle class boys.
4
Q
What did functionalist Miller discuss?
A
- Working-class boys have their own ‘focal concerns’ which can lead them to deviance. e.g., freedom, excitement, being macho…
- They see this as more important than middle class code of conduct.
5
Q
What does neo-Marxist P. Cohen discuss?
A
- Deviant working-class subcultures form as a contradiction within their culture. E.g., the traditional working-class values contradict with consumer culture.
- Some working-class subcultures embraced consumer culture by mimicking the middle class, like mods and skinheads.
- He identified a link between the rise of subcultures and levels of youth crime. This can be linked to a level of protest against the class youth find themselves in.
6
Q
What are criticisms of subcultural theories?
A
- Study only men, lack validity.
- Interactionists say working class boys are targeted by the police.
- Ignore other social characteristics.
- Focus too heavy on working class crime.
- Postmodernists say it is outdated.
- Generalise working class youths.
