Adolescent Males' Perceptions of Gangs and Gang Violence

• NCJ Number: 236963
• Journal: Journal of Gang Research Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Dated: Fall 2011 Pages: 1-8
• Author(s): Sarah Kelly, R.N., Ph.D.; Debra Anderson, R.N., Ph.D.; Lynne Hall, R.N., Dr.PH.; Ann Peden, R.N., D.N.S.; Julie Cerel, Ph.D.
• Date Published: 2011
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study explored adolescent males' experiences with gangs and gang violence from their perspectives of the adolescents, their parents and community center employees.

Abstract

Gang violence is an escalating public health problem in the United States. This study explored adolescent males' experiences with gangs and gang violence from their perspectives of the adolescents, their parents and community center employees. A qualitative design was used to explore perceptions of adolescents' experiences with gangs and gang violence. Adolescents, their parents, and community center employees were asked to participate in the study. Ten adolescents, their parents, and 6 community center employees participated in the study. Adolescents, parents, and community center employees had different perception of gangs, gang violence, and adolescents' experiences with gangs. These adolescents were exposed to gang violence in their neighborhoods; indeed, it was a constant presence in their lives. Their perceptions of gangs and gang violence influenced the adolescents' security and ability to socialize with friends. (Published Abstract)