NCJ Number
147794
Date Published
1992
Length
143 pages
Annotation
This study explores similarities between gang and nongang members on measures of intellect and personality.
Abstract
The sample comprised 60 Latino adolescents drawn from a local parochial school and various street gangs in east Los Angeles. The results of the study found Latino gang members scored significantly lower on the intelligence test compared to nongang members. Differences between groups may be a consequence of poor academic achievement and negative attitudes towards school and related tasks on the part of the gang sample. In general, gang members demonstrated a different style of personality, had greater developmental concerns, displayed a higher frequency of troubled behavior, and demonstrated more distress and conflict than nongang members. The implications of the results are discussed along with limitations of the study and suggestions for future research. Tables, references, appendixes