Citation

Baron SW. Can. Rev. Sociol. Anthropol. 1997; 34(2): 125-154.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, University of Toronto Press)

DOI

10.1111/j.1755-618X.1997.tb00204.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Research examined the violent behaviour and the political consciousness of Canadian male street skinheads. The results reveal that skinheads are drawn from homes characterized by extreme violence and oppression. These experiences leave these youths vulnerable to violent behaviour. These tendencies are exacerbated by their school experiences, their homelessness, and the group and street norms that support and promote aggressive behaviour. The political consciousness of skinheads is rooted in extreme violence and lacks coherence: this, combined with the structure of the groups and their histories of oppression, serves to inhibit long-term organized political activity.