NCJ Number
143487
Journal
Education Digest (May 1992) Pages: 8-10
Date Published
1992
Length
3 pages
Annotation
While youth gangs once had primarily a social basis for their organization and existence, today's gangs are motivated by violence, extortion, intimidation, and illegal drug and weapon trafficking.
Abstract
Gangs are now better organized, remain active longer, have access to sophisticated weapons, and are much more mobile. Gang membership crosses all ethnic and racial boundaries, and gangs are increasingly recruiting in suburban and rural communities and in schools. To reduce gang activity in schools, administrators should establish clear guidelines that prohibit gang activity and encourage responsible citizenship. Model discipline and dress codes are crucial, but these codes should balance an individual's right of free expression with the school's responsibility to provide a secure educational environment. Students, parents, law enforcement, and community leaders should be involved in developing a gang prevention and intervention plan unique to their locale. In addition, graffiti should be removed from school facilities, and adequate support and protection for victims of gang-related crime should be available. Myths about gangs that need to be dispelled are listed.