NCJ Number
145345
Date Published
1992
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This information sheet provides an overview on gangs, and describes where gangs are found, who belongs to them and why, characteristics of different ethnic gangs and the violence in which they engage, gangs and drugs, possible signs of gang involvement, and intervention.
Abstract
Gangs are not a new phenomenon, but in the past two decades, gangs have spread to new territories and become more violent. Children as young as 10 or 11--occasionally, even younger--are joining gangs and committing acts of violence. The gang serves many of the social, cultural, and economic functions not adequately served by schools and family. Gangs usually organize along geographic and ethnic lines. All adhere to codes of silence; once in, chances are that a youth will never get out. Hispanic gangs tend to emphasize the power of the group, while Black gangs emphasize that of the individual. Asian gangs, unlike their Black and Hispanic counterparts, do not wear distinctive clothing or mark their territory with graffiti, but tend to emphasize profit-making ventures. White "stoner" gangs are characterized by punk rock and heavy metal music and may engage in Satanic or white supremacist activities. According to a survey of 124 former gang members, recreation and sports are the most helpful form of intervention, followed by job placement. In other surveys, respondents have mentioned more positive police practices, and more substantial community efforts. 4 references