Juvenile gangs are becoming more popular and problematic, not only in Poughkeepsie, but nationwide. Historically, gangs provided a pseudofamily relationships for individuals who feel isolated and that there was something wrong in their lives (Howell, 2000). Youth gangs are not only a problem in of themselves, but another growing issue is adult gangs that are recruiting younger individuals, specifically males. Although the definition of a youth gang varies, generally, gangs are self-formed groups that are united by mutual interests. Juvenile gangs have had a strong history worldwide; there are also many reasons why juveniles join gangs, and current trends within the gangs. Juvenile gangs either appeared first in Mexico or Europe, and no one
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Gun violence is increasing due to the availability of guns, especially illegally obtained guns. Gangs have three main motives to use violence, including honor, control of local turf, and gain of money or goods (Howell, 1998). Juvenile gangs tend to follow adult members who are generally operate on a very sophisticated organizational network, almost like a corporation (Howell, 1998). Trends are showing that juvenile gangs are becoming more involved with drug offenses more than any other type of offense. Drug use, trafficking and violence considerably overlap with gangs (Howell, …show more content…
Gangs developed through adolescent groups or as a response to urbanization. There are many different factors that contribute to why juveniles join gangs. The most prevalent reasons are due to broken relationships in their families, difficulties in school, and the inert need to the sense of belonging. Today, gangs are more violent than ever before, having younger members than ever before, committing drug crimes with weapons, and having no fear. Gang problems will continue to grow unless something is done, but it is very difficult to address these problems because of the gang mentality, “snitches get stitches.”
References
Howell, J. (August 1998). Youth gangs: an overview. Washington, DC: Office of Juvenile
Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Retrieved from: http://www.ojjdp.gov/jjbulletin/9808/contents.html
Howell, J., Lynch, J. (August 2000). Youth gangs in school. Washington, DC: Office of Juvenile
Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Retrieved from: https://www.ncjrs.gov/html/ojjdp/jjbul2000_8_2/contents.html
Wattenberg, W. W., & Balistrieri, J. J. (1950). Gang membership and juvenile misconduct. American Sociological Review, 15(6), 744-752. Retrieved from:
Gun violence is increasing due to the availability of guns, especially illegally obtained guns. Gangs have three main motives to use violence, including honor, control of local turf, and gain of money or goods (Howell, 1998). Juvenile gangs tend to follow adult members who are generally operate on a very sophisticated organizational network, almost like a corporation (Howell, 1998). Trends are showing that juvenile gangs are becoming more involved with drug offenses more than any other type of offense. Drug use, trafficking and violence considerably overlap with gangs (Howell, …show more content…
Gangs developed through adolescent groups or as a response to urbanization. There are many different factors that contribute to why juveniles join gangs. The most prevalent reasons are due to broken relationships in their families, difficulties in school, and the inert need to the sense of belonging. Today, gangs are more violent than ever before, having younger members than ever before, committing drug crimes with weapons, and having no fear. Gang problems will continue to grow unless something is done, but it is very difficult to address these problems because of the gang mentality, “snitches get stitches.”
References
Howell, J. (August 1998). Youth gangs: an overview. Washington, DC: Office of Juvenile
Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Retrieved from: http://www.ojjdp.gov/jjbulletin/9808/contents.html
Howell, J., Lynch, J. (August 2000). Youth gangs in school. Washington, DC: Office of Juvenile
Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Retrieved from: https://www.ncjrs.gov/html/ojjdp/jjbul2000_8_2/contents.html
Wattenberg, W. W., & Balistrieri, J. J. (1950). Gang membership and juvenile misconduct. American Sociological Review, 15(6), 744-752. Retrieved from: