San Diego State University

*** Only 8 hours before due time. This is only a quick short discussion, it is not an assignment! ***

Oppositional culture theory suggests that certain groups attain  lower levels of academic achievement because of their collective opposition toward mainstream values and behaviors.  This may be one way to understand by which social reproduction occurs.  For example, oppositional culture theory helps to explain why children of low status parents are more likely to be low status as adults.  This theory highlights the social psychological implications of social stigma, the negative ramifications of persisting racial and economic segregation and the importance of peer environments, for examples the environment of the favelas and gangs.  

For children of low socio-economic status, there is skepticism that schooling is a valid means toward success.  This negative assessment, combined with positive assessment of illegal activities, and even sports and entertainment, as rewarding enterprises, results in a push back against attending school.  For many young boys and men, this may also mean hostility towards low wage employment.  This oppositional framework is reinforced by peers and/or peer environment where individuals define themselves not by who they are, but by how they differ from or oppose mainstream or dominant culture.  Oppositional identity is likely to form in groups who may have been given few resources with which to participate in society.

Goldstein uses oppositional culture theory to explain how resistance to mental work and white-collar work leads boys in the favelas to seek manual working class jobs or illegal activity.  This ultimately leads to their own destruction and perpetuation of poverty.  As individuals work against the dominant ideology, they are unable to fulfill the requirements needed to occupy any other class position.  At the same time, those in the favelas want to participate in the dominant culture; this is conflict of interests and counterproductive.   However, Goldstein argues that oppositional culture is an authentic response to domination.  

Seifert, Kelvin and Rosemary Sutton (2020) “Educational Cultural Identity” Educational Psychology

Thomas, Vaso (2008) “Oppositional Culture Theory, ” Encyclopedia of Social Problems

How does oppositional culture theory apply to boys/men in the favelas?  How does it apply to girls/women?  Provide examples to support your answers.  

Directions:

• Write a 200-300 word response to the initial prompt that includes appropriate citations.  Be sure to review the Discussion Rules and Regulations and the Discussions  Participation Rubric.

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