Reluctant Gangsters: The Changing Face of Youth Crime

• NCJ Number: 224545
• Author(s): John Pitts
• Date Published: 2008
• Length: 188 pages
• Sale Source: Willan Publishing
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This book documents the emergence, nature, and impact of armed youth gangs in three London (United Kingdom) boroughs over the last decade.

Abstract

Following an introductory chapter, the second chapter discusses the definitions of “gang.” The working definition in this book is “children and young people who see themselves, and are seen by others, as affiliates of a discrete, named group with a discernible structure and a recognized territory.” Chapter 3 considers the main ways in which gangs are conceptualized in contemporary British criminology. Chapter 4 argues that “gangland” is largely a product of the responses of a succession of neo-liberal governments to what is sometimes described as economic and cultural globalization. The book argues that their decisions in the spheres of housing, employment, social security, education, and crime and justice have pushed some poor young families to the social margins. Chapter 5 examines the changes in organized crime, street-corner crime, and the international drug trade that has precipitated the forms of violent youth crime the book describes. Chapter 6 explores the components of street or gang culture and the ways in which it structures the world view of gang-affiliated youth, as well as those who live in gang-affected neighborhoods. Chapter 7 explores gang affiliation, arguing that many youth seek out gangs as a means of protecting themselves in highly dangerous neighborhoods. Chapter 8 traces the impact of violent youth gangs on the people who live in the territories of “gangland.” Chapter 9 offers recommendations for actions at the levels of politics, policy, administration, and practice. The recommendations are framed in terms of the British Government’s initiative entitled “Every Child Matters.” It applies the initiative’s five objectives to gangland: “Be healthy;” “Stay safe;” “Enjoy and achieve;” “Make a positive contribution;” and “Achieve economic well-being.” 12 figures, 6 tables, 193 references, and a subject index