Why do young people join gangs?
1. Identity Gang members cannot achieve an identity in their environment, so they gain it in the gang culture. They often visualize themselves as warriors against the outside world, protecting their neighborhood.
2. Protection
Joining a gang in a community with several gangs offers considerable protection from violence and attack from rival gangs.
3. Fellowship
Studies indicate that a tight family structure is lacking in the home environment. Gang activity offers that closeness, that sense of family that is often lacking in the home.
Consequences of Gang Involvement
Short Term:
• In trouble with the law
• Drop out of school.
• Withdrawal from family.
• Risk of injury in a "jump-in" by your own gang.
• Drug trafficking/weapons.
• Involvement in "dirty-work."
Long Term:
• Lose opportunity for education and employment.
• Spend time in jail or prison.
• Possibility of losing family and friends.
• Risk of personal injury.
• Risk your own family's life.
• Endless amounts of threats, assaults and drive-by shootings.
Source
violencepreventioninstitute
saxdragon.deviantart
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