Peter Nuttall

Research interests

My work considers the consumer behaviour and practices of adolescents. My work has included adolescent expression of self in the context of music consumption, the social environment and its relevance for adolescent choice and use of music and more recently I have explored elective identity and commitment to practice within social groups. Employing innovative research methods to generate greater insight into adolescent behaviour is key to his research. Current projects include Style and Subculture: This project examines small social groups organised around shared fashion and music to understand how those in emerging adulthood ‘practice’ being part of a group. This study considers not only how an individual self project is assembled but the way in which the practice of being part of a social group can be viewed as credible or authentic by others. Ritual Practices: This project focuses on adolescent experiences of the high school prom and considers the ‘globalisation’ of this ritual event.