NCJ Number
189588
Journal
Deviant Behavior Volume: 22 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2001 Pages: 379-399
Editor(s)
Craig J. Forsyth Ph.D.
Date Published
August 2001
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the evolution of the Big Four 1 percent motorcycle clubs, Hell’s Angels, Bandidos, Outlaws, and Pagans from near-groups to well-organized criminal groups.
Abstract
The American Motorcycle Association (AMA) promoted the idea that outlaw clubs, such as Hell’s Angels, Bandidos, Outlaws, and Pagans, were typical of only 1 percent of the American motorcycling population. These four groups were the largest and most consistently radical of all 1 percent clubs; they were known as the Big Four clubs. Prior research showed these clubs deeply involved in both organized crime and internecine violence. This study discussed how radicals led the Big Four clubs and many of their members were involved in drugs, prostitution, racketeering, stolen goods, extortion, and violence. It was the development of these organizations that was the focus of this study’s sketch of the subculture’s evolution. The interaction of members’ psychological needs with group dynamics and mainstream social forces led to periods of expansion as core values shifted to emphasize dominance over rivals. These clubs provided an outlet for the status frustration of their members facilitated by their isolation from the mainstream. The isolation intensified bonding processes while creating a world view and emotional tone that encouraged violence. Radical leaders became seriously involved in organized crime to finance interclub warfare as the subculture expanded. These activities increased legal scrutiny, attracting police attention. Core biker values were reasserted as certain aspects of club operation became less counter-cultural in order to assure the future of the subculture and its basic components. References