Abstract
This paper examines the stereotypic image of the American merchant seaman. The persistence of this stigma has made attempts at higher social status for seamen problematic. A typology of seamen is constructed on the basis of two dimensions: primary identification either with seaman subculture or shore-side society; and response to the stigma of the occupation. Ninety-five interviews were conducted with seamen, union officials, and relatives of seamen. Participant observation is used to supplement the data obtained in the interviews.

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