NCJ Number
223955
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: Summer 2008 Pages: 35-64
Date Published
2008
Length
30 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this study was to examine gendered processes within a distinct group, that of gang members, in order to discern whether motherhood is an exit strategy for females within this group.
Abstract
Findings from the study indicated that the majority of female gang members did not become pregnant or have children. Also, those that did experience a pregnancy did so after desistance from membership rather than prior to or within the same interview period as such desistance. The investigation found no support for Fleisher and Krienert’s (2004) assertions of the causality of motherhood as a potential desistance mechanism. Prior research has shown that gender within the gang appears to have an influence on gang processes. Male and female gang members differ in several aspects regarding these gang processes before, during, and after gang membership. This study sought to investigate how one of these processes, desistance, varies by gender. Specifically, this study sought to build upon Fleisher and Krienert’s qualitative inquiry, which contends that female gang members most often leave the gang because of motherhood and perhaps are using such motherhood as an exit strategy to avoid violent repercussions. Tables, figures, bibliography and appendix