Running head: DOMINANT AND SUBORDIANTE GROUPS

Dominant and Subordinate Group Analysis Reflection

Kimberly Wynn
Communication and Cultural Diversity SW 3000
Dr. Watkins
November 22, 2016

DOMINANT AND SUBORDIANTE GROUPS

Abstract
This essay will elaborate on what it means to be dominant and subordinate. Analyzing ways
these concepts apply to a persons life can be difficult, especially when talking about the
dominant, what we are good at. We often fail to realize the areas in which we are superior and
point out the areas of vulnerability. Every person can fit into both categories, but sometimes it
takes digging deeper to realize what those areas are. Along with these groups come advantages
and downfalls. This reflection seeks to discuss the specifics of my reflection on certain areas of
my life related to dominant and subordinate groups.

DOMINANT AND SUBORDIANTE GROUPS

Dominate and Subordinate Group Analysis Refection

Throughout our whole lives we are boxed into groups which are sometimes predisposed
by society. These labels are chosen for us, but perhaps the two biggest groups that divide people
are dominant and subordinate. Dominant meaning superior and privileged. In contrast,
subordinate groups meaning disadvantaged and experienced judgment. No one can say that they
are only dominant in society. We all face oppression in some way. As a white, upper middle class
citizen and college student I am at a higher advantage in society. However, being a woman, a
younger employee in the working force, and being in a Greek sorority has proven to have its
shortcomings.
Dominate Groups
Throughout my life by far the main thing that defines me or that people notice is the color
of my skin. White privilege has been proven through history, but is also still around today.
Simply because of something I cannot control I am given certain advantages that people of color
do not have. For example, about a year and a half ago I was pulled over for speeding. I was given
a ticket by the officer and sent home. Months later when I went to court for my ticket I was told
that at the speed I was going I should have had my license suspended and could have been taken
to jail. I have no doubt that because of white privilege I was let off the hook with a significantly
reduced punishment.
Another part of my life that is typically viewed is social class. Growing up in a twoparent household allowed me to grow up in the upper middle class. While having three sisters
does seem to have some financial setbacks, my mom and dad have always provided for my
family. From the guidance of my parents I have been able to get a job and provide for myself.
Recently, my laptop has been giving me trouble and I decided it was time to buy a new one.
Being in the middle social class has allowed me the access to get a credit card and afford my new
laptop. This is an advantage not everyone has. I am in a dominant group because of the
opportunity I have when something is broken I can replace it.
A higher education allows for a better future and idealistically a higher salary. I am
privileged to have the opportunity to be in college. As a college student, I am receiving a skill
that some people do not have access too. For example, my best friend growing up is currently not
in college and I can see the differences in our lives because of the different paths we choose. I
have been able to receive a student credit card, job and volunteer opportunities, and most
importantly continue my education. This privilege also correlates with my social class and ability
to climb the social ladder.
Subordinate Groups
Women have been faced with oppression for years and it does not seem to be slowing
down even with current feminist movements. There are many ways that being a woman has
depreciated my abilities. Just a few sayings men have told me are, I am faster, smarter, stronger,
better than you. Men judge women based off physical appearances. The biggest challenge
women are trying to overcome may be the employment salary gap faced even when performing

DOMINANT AND SUBORDIANTE GROUPS

the same job as a male. Also, the stereotypical roles of women cooking and cleaning. Men have
an expectation of women that they are to stay at home while they work. My male friends often
say to me, go make me a sandwich! Although they say this in a joking manner, it is obvious
women are misrepresented and not treated equally. Due to the roles of women during earlier
times, women are still faced with those same expectations. However, times have changed and it
is time to move on to equal treatment.
Something that I have recently noticed is the treatment of younger workers. Another term
that could be used to help describe this is adultism, which is the belief that older people are
smarter and wiser than younger generations. This subordinate group is not taken care of the way
it should be. There has always been minimum wage which is currently set at $7.24. I make more
than minimum wage now, but it took several years to get a proper raise. Nevertheless, I work in a
medical office and because most of the employees are older, I feel overlooked. I believe because
of my age; my co-workers do not take me seriously. On multiple occasions, I have been talked
down upon or taken advantage of. For example, somedays I come into work with someone else
using my desk for the day or having taken items off my desk that never get returned. I believe
this is because they feel dominant as I am a younger and they do not see anything wrong in doing
this because they do not see my work as important.
Lastly, after joining Greek life at Georgia State and more specifically, Alpha Xi Delta, I
have been confronted with tons of negative responses. The main thing people will tell me is that I
pay for my friends. For clarification, we have dues just like any other club or organization a
student is a part of. We get to plan events every month and our money goes towards food,
activities, and our national philanthropy. Perhaps Autism Speaks is the most rewarding part of
going Greek. We raise thousands of dollars for this organization, but people often judge our
letters before they get to know us. Another thing people assume is that everyone parties all the
time and is not well educated. I know this is not true from serving as academic chair and part of
the requirement is to complete a certain amount of study hours which encourages studying and
supporting sisters.
Conclusion
Overall, I have learned a lot about myself through analyzing which groups I am dominant
and subordinate in. Whether pre-assigned or ones we self-identify with we are placed in these
groups. Specifically, being a white, middle class, college student I have been more dominant in
society. On the other hand, as a woman, young employee, and a Greek life member I have been
oppressed in multiple ways. Both groups have allowed me to analyze what it means to be
characterized by society. I am more aware now of what it means to be dominant and subordinate.
There is a power struggle between the two groups and depending on what side you fall on it
could be positive or negative. I believe it is important to remember that no matter the side there
is always oppression present in these groups.