What characterizes a 'subculture' in sociology?

A subculture in sociology is characterized by a cultural group within a larger culture that maintains distinct values, norms, and practices. This differentiation allows the subculture to form its own identity while still being part of the larger society. Subcultures can arise based on various factors, such as ethnicity, interests, lifestyles, or shared experiences.

For example, youth subcultures like punk or goth embody unique fashion, music, and social practices that set them apart from mainstream culture, yet they exist within that larger societal context. This distinction is critical, as it highlights how subcultures contribute to the diversity of cultural expression while interacting with the dominant culture around them.

In contrast, a cultural group that opposes mainstream values would be classified more specifically as a counterculture. Similarly, a group that adheres to the same norms as the dominant culture wouldn't be considered a subculture, as it lacks distinct characteristics that differentiate it from the mainstream. Lastly, defining a social group solely by geographical boundaries refers more to geography-based communities or regional cultures, rather than the values and practices inherent to a subculture.