NCJ Number
207761
Date Published
June 2003
Length
62 pages
Annotation
This booklet describes the nature of gangs in California and provides information on what community members can do to decrease gang activity.
Abstract
Gangs are no longer solely a problem for California's major urban areas. Gangs across the country have spread from urban areas to the suburbs and even into rural communities. Chapter 1 describes the history of gangs in California and offers information on how to identify a gang. Chapter 2 explores the types of gangs found in California, including Asian gangs, Hispanic gangs, Goths, and Skinheads. Chapter 3 describes the signs of gang membership, such as the monikers, gang attire, hand signs, graffiti, jewelry, and tattoos that typically accompany gang affiliation. Chapter 4 discusses gang mentality and behavior, including their formal leadership structure and the fundamental goal of gaining respect. Various ways of joining a gang are also explored. Chapter 5 discusses reasons why youths join gangs and presents some signs of gang membership, such as a decline in grades and truancy. Chapter 6 provides tips and strategies for preventing and decreasing gang activity. Strategies are offered for broad involvement from parents, community members, schools, and local governments. The appendix presents State and Federal resources. Appendix