Youth Culture and Subcultures

Introduction

The period of youth is a time of intense discovery—a search for identity, independence, and a place to belong. This search often takes shape within a broader "youth culture," which consists of the shared values, styles, and interests of young people. Within this larger culture, smaller, more distinct groups called subcultures often emerge. From the punks of the 1970s to the e-girls and e-boys of the digital age, subcultures provide young people with a way to express their individuality and, sometimes, to resist the norms of the adult world.

Learning objectives

After reading this article, you should be able to:

• Define youth culture and subculture, and explain their main functions.
• Identify the key elements that define a subculture, such as style and music.
• Describe some classic historical examples of subcultures and what they stood for.
• Analyse how the internet and social media have changed the nature of subcultures.
• Understand the process by which subcultures can be absorbed into mainstream culture.

What is Youth Culture? …