NCJ Number
125765
Date Published
1990
Length
25 pages
Annotation
The failure of the United States to solve its youth gang problems results from major procedure and policy deficiencies; gangs are more numerous, more prevalent, and more violent than in earlier decades.
Abstract
A major reason for this situation is the failure to develop a comprehensive gang control strategy. In addition, the gang problem is viewed in local and narrow terms rather than from a national perspective. Moreover, programs are implemented in the absence of demonstrably valid theoretical rationales. Efforts to evaluate program effectiveness systematically have also been virtually abandoned. Furthermore, resources allocated to the gang problem do not match the severity of the problem, and the United States lacks an organizational center of responsibility for gang problems. Finally, the United States is reluctant to face the implications of the social context of gang life. A more effective approach would be the development of a comprehensive national strategy, the establishment of programs based on strong theoretical rationales, careful evaluation, an increase in resources, and the establishment of a Federal office of youth gang control. Notes.