What is a segment of society that shares a distinctive pattern of mores, folkways, and values different from the larger society?

A segment of society that shares a distinctive pattern of mores, folkways, and values different from the larger society is termed a subculture. Subcultures develop around shared interests, lifestyles, or beliefs that set them apart from the dominant culture, allowing them to maintain their unique identity within the broader social context.

For instance, youth cultures, ethnic groups, or even communities focused on particular hobbies or lifestyles can be categorized as subcultures. These groups exhibit their own norms and values that might differ significantly from mainstream societal expectations, yet they coexist within the larger society, contributing to its diversity.

The other concepts, although related to social structures, do not accurately define the idea of a segment with distinct shared patterns. Sociology is the study of society and social behavior rather than a specific segment within it. A status group refers to a classification based on social prestige and does not necessarily encapsulate the broader cultural elements. Stereotypes, on the other hand, are generalized beliefs about members of a group and do not form a cohesive, identifiable segment of society.