NCJ Number
125754
Date Published
1990
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This discussion of research on gangs notes that little agreement exists or is needed regarding definitions of and explanations for gangs, gang involvement, gang activities, or the relationship of gangs to the larger social structure.
Abstract
In addition, the available research is insufficient to support a general theory regarding gangs. Moreover, confining gang research to rigid definitional criteria may constrain the creativity of researchers in exploring distinct aspects of the gang experience. It is emphasized that it is important to understand how people experience their lives and attach meaning to their actions. Finally, gang research based on a cultural perspective differs in many ways from studies based on an economic model. Notes and discussion of studies by Miller, Katz, Sanchez-Jankowski, and others.