Social Construction of Cultural Identity: A Communication Perspective of Smock Use in Daboya - Ghana

Abstract

The use of the smock is an important aspect of the people of Daboya “Wasipe” Traditional Area of Ghana, and its cultural values interests’ the people of the area.  The traditional smock of Daboya in the Savanna Region of Ghana conveys much information about the identities of the people's traditional cultural values without using words. The objective of this paper is to assess the Social Construction of Cultural Identity, a Cultural and Communication Perspective of the use of the Smock in Daboya ‘Wasipe’ Traditional Area. The interpretivism paradigm served as the driver of the entire research process. The study adopted social identity theory as a philosophy to guide the study. Purposive sampling dominated the study. The main data collection methods were in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and observation. Data was analysed qualitatively.  Smocks represent the culture and identity of the people of Daboya and are produced there by traditional indigenous weavers and commercial printers. Key among the findings include: the three (3) major types of smocks in the area and the symbolic meaning of the threads and colours of the smock. The sociocultural significance of the smock was also identified and how it communicates traditionally about the people's traditional cultural values. For policy implications, to ensure smock quality and to meet the ever-increasing demand for the smock, factories should be established to handle the raw materials required for the mass manufacture of smock in huge quantities. Additionally, a branding plan should be created for the smock product in the Daboya "Wasipe" area so that organizations and corporate bodies can brand it for their uniforms.

Keywords: Smock, Daboya, Communication, Identity, Social Construction.