NCJ Number
147228
Journal
National Parent-Teacher Magazine Volume: 50 Dated: (January 1956) Pages: 18-20
Date Published
1956
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The authors discuss the reasons why young people become involved in gangs, and what neighborhoods might do about them.
Abstract
Children naturally "hang out" in gangs--in more innocuous forms, called groups or cliques--which fulfills many of their basic social needs. These needs are especially strong during adolescence, when youngsters move from dependence on parents toward independence and adventure into the world. Growing youngsters want the acceptance of their peers; in seeking stature, they are doing what adults do. Thus, the question of what communities should do is not a simple one. The basic challenge is to channel children's energy into constructive activities. This challenge is particularly crucial in dismal neighborhoods--large cities-- where gang activity is most intense. Experience has shown that, as alternatives to police gang-busting, community efforts at assimilating gang members can work if leaders can show sympathy and understanding.