NCJ Number
151995
Date Published
1994
Length
46 pages
Annotation
Because juvenile gangs have spread from California's major urban areas to suburban and rural communities, guidance is presented on how communities can recognize signs of gang involvement and prevent gang activity.
Abstract
The first step in addressing gang problems in family, school, and community settings involves overcoming fear and denial. Gangs cross all ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, and geographic boundaries. They exist in urban, suburban, and rural communities, and children see gang images reinforced and glamorized in the media, music, and fashion. California neighborhoods are increasingly becoming involved in comprehensive approaches to prevent gang violence and other problems associated with gangs. These approaches stress partnerships among concerned individuals, community organizations, and government agencies and normally involve the police, schools, churches, local government agencies, parks and recreation departments, and businesses working with parents and youth. Comprehensive approaches also deal with gang problems on three levels: prevention, intervention, and suppression. In focusing on prevention, the booklet provides basic information to help identify gang activities in family, school, and community settings and answers key questions on why youth join gangs and types of gang activities in which youth are involved. Actions are suggested that can be taken by parents, educators, concerned community members, and local government officials to prevent gang activities. Appendixes note antigang laws in California and gang prevention program resources.