NCJ Number
147686
Date Published
1991
Length
50 pages
Annotation
This booklet examines the nature of street gangs, the reasons why students join gangs, and the key issues that confront educators when dealing with gangs; it concludes with a blueprint for effective intervention to curtail gang activity.
Abstract
In discussing the nature of a street gang, the author profiles the continuum of gang involvement. Personal and societal factors that contribute to gang involvement are reviewed in another section, followed by a profile of a gang member. Prior to the presentation of a blueprint for effective school intervention to counter gangs, unproductive approaches for curtailing gang activity are identified. One dangerous and ineffective school strategy is the "search and destroy" technique, which attempts to identify gang members, monitor their moves, and suspend them from school for the slightest violation. The recommended blueprint has five components: staff development, values education, school climate, cultural inclusion, and community involvement. Staff development educates school personnel about street gangs and how best to respond to gang members in a school context. Values education designed to counter the gang appeal focuses on such issues as the relative importance of money and material possessions, loyalty, respect for the law, civic responsibility, the work ethic, and respect for life and property. The development of a positive school climate involves caring personnel and a safe, clean, and orderly school environment. A school curriculum that emphasizes cultural inclusion helps minorities to identify with the mainstream of American society rather than seek acceptance in an ethnically homogeneous gang. Community involvement in the school program draws upon all community resources that can assist in helping students experience satisfying nongang lifestyles. 24 references