The first theory explains that the deteriorating British economy led many sorrowful youths to fight back. In England, lack of educational opportunities and wage-bearing jobs caused working-class youths to hit a wall. These youths were hindered with the idea that they had no future, that there was nothing for them, so they hit back confrontationally. Through their music, their lyrics, and their strong revelations and beliefs, they fought for what they deserved and what they were interested in, and they refused to conform.

The second theory gives credit to the mentors and pioneers of the Punk movement who planted their roots in art education. People like the Pistol's Glen Matlock, the Clashe's Joe Strummer, and Mick Jones, all had art-school origins. This theory goes further to explain that Punk rock is engulfed with the ideas that performance is art, fashion is art, and the music is art. What the artist wore, the material that there were performing, and what they said through their lyrics is all art. (Friedlander)