Who joins a gang?

Gangs spread across all races and ethnic orgins. They are not restricted to any one socio-economic group. They often include people who are looking for a surrogate family. Some may join a gang because they have relatives or friends in the gang. Gang members are often dealing with their own drug and/or alcohol issues or addictions.

Top 8 Reasons Youth join gangs

  1. Surrogate family
  2. Identity or recognition
  3. Family history
  4. Lack of alternatives
  5. Intimidation
  6. Protection
  7. Money
  8. Other

Factors that influence youth joining a gang

  • Low self esteem with a sense of helplessness
  • Peer pressure from family gang members
  • Parental neglect
  • Poverty/substandard housing – Living in high-risk neighborhoods
  • Substance abuse in and outside the home
  • School dropout or truant
  • Friends/family members with criminal backgrounds
  • Antisocial, hostile or aggressive behaviors towards people in authority
  • Social deprivation or isolation behaviors
  • Feel the need for personal protection
  • Perceived lack of employment opportunities
  • Lack of positive role models
  • Unaware of the consequences of gang involvement
  • Lack of unemployment opportunities
  • Domestic violent/physical and sexual abuse

Any combination of these risk factors=High risk of gettting involved in a gang!