NZHistory.net / Gallery / DNZB thematic exhibitions / Children and Adolescents
Originally meaning 'fake, false, inferior, worthless', the term 'bodgie' was applied to a male youth distinguished by his conformity to certain fashions and behaviours during the 1950s. The 'widgie' was the female counterpart of the bodgie. This sketch shows the range of fashions and hairstyles adopted by bodgies and widgies.
This image has been taken from A. H. Manning, The Bodgie: A Study in Abnormal Psychology, A.H. and A.W. Reed, Wellington, 1958