A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What is a subculture?

1. A group that adopts mainstream values

2. A dominant cultural framework within society

3. A smaller group within society with a unique identity

4. An obsolete cultural category

The correct answer is: A smaller group within society with a unique identity

A subculture refers to a distinct group within a larger culture that possesses its own unique values, norms, behaviors, and beliefs that differentiate it from the mainstream. This smaller group may develop its own identity, often in response to social, economic, or political factors that influence their collective experience. For instance, subcultures can emerge around shared interests such as music (e.g., punk, goth), lifestyle choices, or social movements. These groups often express their identity in various ways, including fashion, language, and rituals, which can sometimes stand in contrast to the prevailing cultural norms of the larger society. Recognizing subcultures is vital to understanding the diversity and complexity of societal structures as they provide insight into how different groups navigate their identities within a broader cultural landscape. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what a subculture represents. A group that adopts mainstream values would not be classified as a subculture, as it lacks the distinctiveness that defines subcultural groups. A dominant cultural framework is related to the prevailing or mainstream culture itself, rather than a subgroup within it. Describing a subculture as an obsolete cultural category misrepresents its dynamic and evolving nature, as subcultures can continuously change and adapt,