Back in the Field Again: Gang Research in the Nineties (From Gangs in America, P 240-259, 1990, C Ronald Huff, ed. -- See NCJ-125752)

• NCJ Number: 125764
• Author(s): J M Hagedorn
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 20 pages
• Sale Source: Sage Publications, Inc
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This analysis of research on modern gangs concludes that more field studies are essential due to the limitations of other types of gang research and despite concerns about field work.

Abstract

A major unresolved issue regarding contemporary gangs is the effects on gangs of the emergence of a new minority underclass in urban ghettos and barrios. This issue can be addressed only through analyses of how gangs and gang members lead their lives. Field studies are needed because little recent empirical research exists, some recent research suggests that gangs have changed fundamentally, and existing research indicates wide variations in gang types. In addition, gangs will be portrayed differently when studied in their natural environment rather than through official reports, homicide data, or prison interviews, because these approaches seldom accomplish more than reinforcing popular stereotypes. Therefore, collaborative and innovative forms of empirical research are needed. Notes.