Sewell's study on Black boys and anti-school rebellion

Tony Sewell (1997) explored how Black youth, particularly boys, form anti-school subcultures in response to school experiences. He argued that these subcultures emerge as a way to cope with feelings of alienation.

Key findings from Sewell's research

• Disaffected Black youth - Black pupils may see schools as racist and alien, leading them to become disaffected.
• Formation of subcultures - These pupils often group together with others who share similar experiences, creating a 'comfort zone'.
• Rebel minority - Sewell found that only a small group of Black boys actively rebel and form these subcultures.
• Stereotyping issue - Despite most Black boys conforming to school rules and rarely causing trouble, negative stereotypes portray them as disruptive, dominating public discussions.

Mac an Ghaill's study on Asian male anti-school subcultures

Mairtin Mac an Ghaill (1988) examined anti-school subcultures among Asian boys.

The Warriors subculture

Mac an Ghaill identified a group called the Warriors, who were secretly anti-school. Teachers often did not spot this resistance because they viewed Asian boys as non-problematic.

Mac an Ghaill's findings on African-Caribbean girls' resistance

Mac an Ghaill (1988) also studied African-Caribbean girls.

The Black Sisters subculture

The group Mac an Ghaill called the Black Sisters resisted school authority while valuing education as a path to future success. These girls perceived teachers as racist in their assessments of abilities, leading them to defy teachers openly in class. Despite their resistance, they worked hard, seeing education as a 'means to an end'.