Marginality and nonconformist behaviour

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Abstract
On the basis ofcertain indicators of value-orientations differing from those found in society at large and which are subscribed to by a considerable percentage of the Coloureds of South Africa. the following hypothesis is presented. namely that: (a) marginality can predispose an individual to nonconformist behaviour ߞ nonconformist in terms of the values of those who do not find themselves in such a position -; further that: (b) marginal persons behave differently from non-marginal persons. In an investigation concerning work-shyness amongst the Coloureds of South Africa. the following indicators of different value-orientations were found: (1) nonconformist behaviour amongst parents and children; (2) disturbed family relations; (3) unsatisfactory progress at school; (4) truancy; (5) revolt against authority; (6) occupational instability; (7) parasitism; (8) evasion of marital responsibilities; (9) indifference to religious matters; (10) apathy; and (11) contempt of authority. A marginal position is probably the most frustrating and torturing position imaginable. and the fact that individuals who find themselves in a marginal position hold different value-orientations concerning certain community-values and norms and behave differently. may be regarded as an implicit result — an almost inevitable consequence — of their marginality.

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