NCJ Number
157113
Date Published
1995
Length
179 pages
Annotation
This book is targeted toward adolescents, both those who are already involved in a gang and those considering joining a gang.
Abstract
The first section of the book discusses the organization of juvenile gangs and their activities. Adolescents join gangs to adhere to pressure, to gain protection, or to meet their need to belong. These chapter discuss the structure of gangs, characteristics of small gang leaders, the violent activities of gangs, gang involvement in drug trafficking, and members' use of gang colors, initiation rites, and weapons. The second section advises adolescents on ways they can cope with gangs, by dealing with the root causes of juvenile gang membership, including having an abusive or violent family, living in poverty, or wanting to belong; by learning to stand firm against gang demands; and finally, by leaving the gang. 1 appendix