Youth subcultures and deviance

Defining Deviance in Youth Culture

Deviance refers to behaviours or actions that defy societal norms or expectations.
Within the context of youth cultures, deviance may be used as a form of resistance against dominant cultural norms or as a way to create unique identities.
The term ‘moral panic’ is often used in relation to youth deviance, describing an overreaction by society to perceived threats posed by certain youth subcultures.

Historically, many youth subcultures have been associated with deviance. For instance, the Mods and Rockers of the 1960s were considered deviant due to their distinctive styles and behaviours that confronted societal norms of the time.
Deviant behaviours within youth subcultures can range from relatively harmless rule-breaking, such as violating dress codes, to more serious illegal activities such as vandalism and substance abuse.
The concept of ‘deviant subcultures’ has been used to describe subgroups within a larger culture that engage in behaviours considered deviant by mainstream society.

Deviance is not inherent but socially constructed, meaning what is considered deviant varies across cultures and can change over time.
Media plays a significant role in the construction and perception of youth deviance, often exaggerating and sensationalising certain behaviours of youth subcultures.
Societal reaction, or labelling, can sometimes cause individuals within a youth culture to engage in more deviant behaviours, a phenomenon known as the self-fulfilling prophecy.

Deviant behaviours within subcultures are often a form of resistance against mainstream societal norms and expectations.
Punk culture provides a historic example. Punk youth deliberately embraced styles and behaviours considered deviant to express their discontent with society.
Similarly, modern subcultures like the skateboarders or street artists often engage in behaviours seen as deviant, such as trespassing, as a form of resistance against societal rules and conventions.

Institutions such as schools, the legal system, and the family play a key role in defining and responding to youth deviance.
For instance, schools often establish norms and expectations through rules and codes of conduct, defining what constitutes deviant behaviour.
The legal system can further reinforce these norms by punishing certain behaviours. Punishment can range from minor sanctions like fines or community service to more serious penalties like incarceration.
The role of institutions in defining deviance is not static and can change over time, reflecting shifting societal norms and values.