3770 ACCULTURATION IN SEVEN AMERICAN INDIAN TRIBES

for a strong insistence that all premarital sex relations were to
be clandestinely conducted. Boasting of sexual exploits was de-
cidedly in bad taste. Yet, as they must in a small community,
sex affairs quickly became open secrets. Furthermore, the belief
that lucky in love meant lucky in gambling put a high premium
on seduction.

No conflict existed in theory with respect to post-marital sexual
fidelity. Adulterers caught in flagrante were liable to be killed,
although each case was considered on its merits, the culprits
sometimes escaping with little more than a severe drubbing.
Some men merely sent their wives away when they suspected
them of adultery.

At present, attitudes of sexual shame are very strongly de-
veloped, particularly shame about bodily exposure. How much
of this was aboriginal is difficult to determine. That present
shame responses are derivative from an aboriginal base is evi-
denced by the differences in sex behavior permitted high caste
women.

FOCI OF INTEREST IN CULTURE-VALUE SYSTEM

For the upper class at least all interest centered around the
potlatch-rank complex. The most respected individuals were
those who could accumulate most wealth and elevate their social
status. he father of one informant spoke to his son only about
potlatching. Supernatural experiences were sought almost en-
tirely for the assistance supernatural power gave in accumulating
wealth and in becoming a noble. Religious experience for its own
sake had no appeal for the Carrier. The ideal person was one
who was not lazy, who was up early, hunted all the time and
was enterprising in trade. Even children, barely able to walk
steadily were openly criticized for “playing too much.” Children
at the age of six were already setting traps for small game and
were expected to become adults quickly. Everyone, from the
youngest to the oldest, had to participate to the full extent of
his capabilities in the household economy. The emphasis upon
useful work was even reflected in the Carrier attitudes toward
their dogs. Pups were looked upon scornfully as “playdogs.’’ Old