No Curs Allowed: Exploring the Subculture of Dogmen

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Robert F. Solomon Jr. (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Steven Cureton

Abstract: The aim of this research project was to explore and provide some insight concerning the otherwise clandestine, underground, subculture of dogfighting. More specifically, dogmen and dogfighting was examined using cinema, electronic media-outlets, and video websites. Apparently, the dogfighting phenomenon has been identified as a morally depraved subculture by mainstream society and sanctions against individuals identified as engaging in dogfighting is arguably non-utilitarian. It logically follows that the social and legal outcomes associated with the dogfighting phenomenon would force the subculture further underground where it could become a haven for illicit behavior and violence against people, property, and dogs. The results indicate that being a dogman and endorsing dogfighting is related to Pit Bull ownership, relative knowledge of dogfighting, deprivation, and access to the opportunity and willingness to enter the social world of dog-fighting. Additionally, the data suggests that the Pit Bull subculture is far from chaotic. The dogfighting subculture has internal systems and processes designed to regulate how the subculture operates. These systems and processes allow the subculture to not only survive, but to also thrive.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 2008
Keywords
Deviance, Dog-Fighting, Habitus, Qualitative, Social Capital, Taboo
Subjects
Dogfighting $x Social aspects $z United States.
Social capital (Sociology).
Subculture $z United States.
Taboo.
Criminal behavior.
Deviant behavior.

Email this document to