Authors: Copes, Heith¹; Williams, J. Patrick²

Source: Deviant Behavior, Volume 28, Number 3, May 2007 , pp. 247-272(26)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

Abstract:

Previous studies have examined how individuals act in ways that are considered deviant by mainstream standards and how these individuals neutralize their actions to maintain a positive self concept. But little is known about how individuals who defy social norms by "not doing" socially accepted behaviors construct meaningful subcultural identities. We explore the overlap between "deviant behavior" and subcultural identity through a case study of an abstinence-based subculture called straightedge. Through an analysis of online, textual interaction among participants of an internet forum dedicated to the straightedge youth subculture and focused discussions with forum members, we develop the concept of techniques of affirmation to frame how participants' beliefs regarding abstinence from drugs, alcohol, and promiscuous sex are articulated in subcultural discourse. We identify five affirmation techniques through which straightedge youths remain steadfast to their ideals, beliefs and non-actions: (1) acknowledgment of responsibility, (2) acknowledgment of injury, (3) acknowledgment of the victim, (4) discounting condemners, and (5) reference to priority relationships. We suggest that people and groups who orient themselves to subcultural frames of reference are more likely to utilize techniques of affirmation as part of constructing a positive sense of self.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01639620701233167

Affiliations: 1: Department of Justice Sciences, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA 2: Department of Criminology, Sociology and Geography, Arkansas State University, State University, Arkansas, USA

Publication date: 2007-05-01

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