NCJ Number
211038
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 12 Issue: 4 Dated: Summer 2005 Pages: 1-24
Date Published
2005
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This study explored correlates of Hispanic female juvenile gang involvement.
Abstract
Data has indicated that over one-third of juvenile gang members are females and they are significantly involved in the gang’s violent criminal behavior. In order to further research and prevention efforts, it is important to discover why females join violent street gangs. The current study focused on Hispanic female gang involvement and drew on data from the National Evaluation of the Gang Resistance Educational Training (GREAT) program conducted between 1995 and 1999, which consists of responses from 5,935 eighth graders from 11 schools in 11 cities. The current analysis of correlates of Hispanic female gang involvement focused on the 114 respondents who identified themselves as Hispanic female gang members. The analysis examined variables in five domains: family, peers, community, school, and individual characteristics. Results of statistical analyses including logistic regression indicated that peer influence, individual deviance, and a positive attitude toward gangs predicted Hispanic female gang involvement. The findings suggest the need for gang prevention intervention efforts before the surge of peer influence occurs, usually during the middle school years. Future research should compare correlates of gang involvement across ethnic groups, especially across recent immigrant groups. Tables, references