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How Do You Identify a Subculture?

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Subcultures are groups of people who share similar interests and values. They often have their own language, dress style, music, and other things.

Unsurprisingly, subcultures exist in every country around the globe.

There are several ways to identify a subculture. One way is to look at the media they consume. For example, if they listen to music from the same genre, they probably belong to the same subculture.

Another way is to look at their clothing. If they wear clothes associated with a particular subculture, they probably belong to that group.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at subcultures in more detail. 

One group of rappers posing on rooftop

What Are Some Ways to Determine Whether Someone Belongs to a Specific Group or Not?

If you want to know if someone belongs to a specific group, there are many ways to find this information out.

The easiest way would be to ask them. You can say something like, “So, what kind of music do you listen to?” or “What kinds of books do you like to read?” The answers will give you an idea of the type of person they are.

You could also use Google. Type in keywords related to your topic.

For example, if you wanted to know about a subculture called Goths, you could search for “Goths” on Google. This search will bring up websites about Gothic fashion, music, etc.

4 gothic women walking outside autumn

You could also go to social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, etc. There are lots of different subcultures on these sites. You could see what members post on their profiles and what they surround themselves with.

Other than these methods, you could also check out magazines and newspapers. Magazines usually feature articles about various subcultures. Newspapers often have sections dedicated to subcultures.

For example, if you were interested in learning about the Goth subculture, you could read about it in a magazine. Or, you could read about the Goth subculture in a newspaper.

The Internet has become one of the best sources for discovering subcultures. Websites such as Wikipedia and the Urban Dictionary have tons of information about subcultures.

You could even visit blogs written by members of a subculture.

crop image of one rock music band with their instrument

Are There Different Types of Subcultures?

Yes! There are hundreds of different subcultures.

Each subculture has its own unique characteristics. Some subcultures are very small, while others are huge. Some subcultures only exist in one city, while others spread worldwide.

Some subcultures have been around for decades, while others are brand new.

Subcultures come in many shapes and sizes. They can range from being a few people who meet once a week to including thousands of people who gather together each weekend.

Different subcultures share some common traits. For example, most subcultures tend to dress differently. They may also have similar interests, such as listening to music, reading books, watching movies, playing video games, etc.

Group of popular band practicing together

Two Main Categories of Subcultures

There are two main categories of subcultures: mainstream and underground. The difference between them is how well known they are.

Mainstream subcultures are popular. They’re often represented in television shows, movies, commercials, and social media.

Underground subcultures are ones where people prefer not to be noticed. They keep their beliefs and tenets to themselves.

Do All Subcultures Have Their Own Language?

No. Not all subcultures have their own language. However, some subcultures have their very own slang.

Slang is the unique use of words by a group of people. It can be a type of secret code. Slang often uses common words in uncommon ways to express a meaning specific to that group or subculture.

Slang is sometimes used in songs or poems. Often, it’s heard in movies or TV shows.

An example of slang is when you hear someone beginning a statement with the word “dude.” That means they want to tell you something important.

expression slang word group of people

Why Do Subcultures Even Exist?

People are fascinated by the unknown. They want to learn more about things they don’t understand. This curiosity leads them to explore the world around them.

They do this by trying to find answers to questions they don’t know the answer to. In doing so, they create a new culture.

They call this new culture a subculture. A subculture is a group of people who share certain beliefs and values. These beliefs and values help define what makes up a subculture.

Alone standing girl

What Are the Characteristics of a Subculture?

A subculture usually consists of three elements:

Beliefs 

These are the ideas, thoughts, opinions, etc., that make up a person’s worldview.

Values 

These are standards that a person holds dear and incorporates into their life and decisions.

Customs 

These are rules that govern behavior within a particular society.

Examples of Subcultures

Here are some examples of beliefs and customs found in various subcultures:

Punk Rockers

female punk rocker holding an electric guitar on the street

Punk Rockers believe that you should live life for yourself. They think that everyone deserves respect.

Goths

urban gothic girl talking over her phone

Goths believe that there’s no good reason to live. They feel that death is the ultimate freedom.

Hippies

Hippies believe that peace and love are the best ways to live. They think that living without money is an ideal lifestyle.

Hipsters

beautiful hippie girl with her guitar on the road

Hipsters believe that art should be free. They think that creativity is the greatest gift one can give to others.

Gangstas

Gangster grandfather with gold outfit and jewelries

Gangstas believe that violence is the only way to solve problems. They think that loyalty is the highest virtue.

Country Music Fans

woman with guitar boots and hat on the road

Country music fans believe that country music is the best kind of music. They like to listen to country music while working out at the gym, in their car, and anywhere else.

Skaters

woman riding skateboard

Skaters believe that skating is the best sport. They are often seen skateboarding or rollerblading.

Surfers

surfer rider wave sunny day

Surfers believe that surfing is the most fun thing to do. They tend to surf as much as they can.

Motorcyclists

long hair man standing motorcyclist

Motorcyclists believe that riding motorcycles is the coolest thing ever. They enjoy riding motorcycles as often as possible.

Final Thoughts

Subcultures are fascinating because they’re different from mainstream culture. They also attract many fans.

However, not all subcultures are as popular as other ones. Some subcultures are even considered harmful.

That being said, subcultures are fascinating to know about, and those that interest you are worth researching.