Citation

Young K, Craig L. Can. Rev. Sociol. Anthropol. 1997; 34(2): 175-206.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, University of Toronto Press)

DOI

10.1111/j.1755-618X.1997.tb00206.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Grounded in a cultural studies approach to youth subcultures and based on participant observation in a Western Canadian city, this study examines the meanings associated with membership for participants in a self-described "non-political" branch of the skinhead subculture. Despite popular images that imply homogeneity, the study shows that the skinhead subculture is both complex and multi-dimensional and that it accommodates, albeit in often contradictory ways, a range of behavioural and ideological opportunities for its members. The study also suggests that, far from being resistant or transformative in any significant way, skinhead groups may represent a vehicle for social reproduction, specifically with respect to gender, race and ethnicity.