Microcultural Context

The Microcultural Context

is group of people who share a set of values, beliefs, and behaviors and own a common history, verbal and nonverbal symbol system.

Members of Microculture can be seen from types of groups that classified as:

MICROCULTURE

Age - Class - Geographic Region - Sexual Preference - Disability - Ethnicity - Race - Size - Occupation

5 Characteristics of Microcultural groups from the dominat culture (Schaefer, R. T. 2007):

1. The group possess some physical or cultural trait

Physical properties - Skin color and Sex

In United States, Blacks and Women are considered minorities (the fact that women constitute about 51% of the population). While, White males are considered the most powerful political and economic group.

Cultural trait - Dress habits

A microcultural group in Jamaica is the Rastafarians.

Rastas are recognized by their dreadlock hair and unique dress habits.

2. Microcultural membership is usually not voluntary

People are habitually born into their microculture.

Eg; Race, Ethnicty, Gender

However, people can choose their religion. Yet, it may be very difficult to leave.

3. The microcultural group members generally practice endogamy

In Pakistan, China, India and Laos, Endogamous marriages are often arranged.

viewed as a family or community affair.

All aspects of marriage are controlled by the members of the family.

4. The microcultural group members are aware of their subordinate status

The groups are very cohesive because they know that they are less powerful within a particular culture.

5. Experience unequal in the form of segregation and discrimination

Women in Saudi Arabia
Blacks and Hispanics in the United States
Sudras in India