NCJ Number
113166
Journal
School Safety Dated: (Spring 1988) Pages: 26-27
Date Published
1988
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This 1980 to 1985 study examined the characteristics of black, urban juvenile gangs and their impact on schools and the community.
Abstract
Two distinct types of youth gangs were identified. Scavenger gang members typically were low achievers and school dropouts, came from broken homes, and had experienced contact with police and juvenile authorities. Members had few common bonds, leadership changed frequently, and they engaged primarily in senseless, petty crimes. Corporate gangs, in contrast, were goal-oriented, group-oriented, and focused on economic and power-based gains. Members usually attended school and were average or better students. While most members did not use drugs, drugs provided a major source of their power and money. Both types of gangs significantly disrupted the educational process, increasing fears of nongang members and teachers, resorting to violence to protect their interests, and providing a testimonial that crime does pay. Despite the impact of these gangs on school and the general community, parents, school officials, and criminal justice workers often displayed a defensive attitude toward problems associated with the gangs, often denying the existence of a problem. Combatting gang activities will require a community team effort, with an emphasis on prevention.