Becoming a Taxi-Dancer

Abstract

Previous studies of deviant and semi-deviant occupations have reported that workers in these occupations frequently use justifications to explain or defend their occupational behaviors. The present study also finds the same tendency among the taxi-dancers. Most important, we find the learning of justifications plays a significant role in their occupational socialization. Without learning the various techniques to neutralize the unpleasantness of the job, the novice is not likely to commit herself to the career. Other factors in the occupational socialization of the taxi-dancers are also discussed. The study was conducted by means of intensive interviews and participant observation.