A subculture is a group of people who have beliefs or interests that are different from those of the larger culture they belong to. According to the Oxford Dictionary (Oxford University Press, 2021), a subculture is “a cultural group within a larger group, having beliefs or interests at variance with those of the larger culture.” Some characteristics of a subculture may include a negative relation to class, association with a specific physical or nonphysical territory, and a refusal of ordinary norms and behaviors (Stebbins, 1987).
Subcultures are often studied in anthropology as a way of understanding local values, norms, and behaviors (Stebbins, 1987). In sport psychology, subculture is part of cultural sport psychology, which involves studying the unique beliefs, norms, and behaviors of specific sport teams (Schinke & McGannon, 2014). Researchers can learn about subcultures by collaborating with the group and understanding the context and nuances of each group, as denoted in community-based research (Stambulova & Schinke, 2017). Practitioners must also be aware of the unique aspects of each subculture and how people relate to situate themselves and their roles as supportive resources (Stambulova & Schinke, 2017).
Schinke, R. J., & McGannon, K. R. (Eds.), (2014). The psychology of sub-culture in sport and physical activity: Critical approaches. East Sussex, UK: Psychology Press.
Stambulova, N., & Schinke, R. J. (2017). Experts focus on the context: Postulates derived form the authors’ shared experi- ence and wisdom. Journal of Sport Psychology in Action. Advanced online publication: https://doi.org/10.1080/ 21520704.2017.1308715.
Stebbins, R. A. (1987). Canadian football: The view from the helmet. London, Ontario: University of Western Ontario Press.
