This paper explores behavior patterns of lower class black adolescents and contends that their seemingly illogical and irrational behavior is, in fact, meaningful and utilitarian within the context of their environments. The effects of social and residential segregation and the lack of stable social institutions reinforce strong feelings of group isolation and enhance peer group pressure. Behaviors should be seen as adaptations to frustrations of exclusion and symptomatic of the need for new forms of social organization, novel social practices, and self-identity. Thus, rejection of middle class work styles and time orientation reflect the adolescent's need to avoid confronting the humiliating realities of low-paying menial jobs. Moreover, in a social milieu which does not sanction present sacrifices for future rewards, pleasure-seeking activities are not only encouraged but offer a defiant alternative to middle class values. Verbal games such as "the dozens" and "signifying" provide an avenue for manipulating peers and achieving a sense of adequacy. "Soul," the opposite of white hypocrisy and phoniness, gives the black a sense of group cohesiveness and superiority over his oppressor. (KG)