ABSTRACT
This chapter provides the theoretical perspectives that are advanced as explanatory constructs. Covert prestige refers to the positive value that members of a social subgroup attach to the non-standard linguistic norms and behaviours of their community. The antilanguage is built on the basis of "same grammar, different vocabulary" on the principle of new words for old – although not all words in the standard lexicon need have antilanguage equivalents. A number of scholars link youth language practices with notions of resistance. Language practices in particular play a significant role in the expression of in- and out-group membership, both consciously and unconsciously, by the speaker. A number of scholars link youth language practices with notions of resistance. Antilanguage aside, the theoretical construct that is perhaps most applied to explain resistance in accounts of youth language practices, as well as those of other social subgroup and countercultures, is that of Castells.
