Hispanic Drug Gangs

Paper Summary:

This paper describes the ethnic composition of street gangs, with an emphasis on those that attract Hispanic youth. Also discussed are the activities of drug gangs and their association with organized crime. Several theories describing the Hispanic gang phenomenon are presented, although the author believes they do not account for all the factors affecting Hispanic street gangs. Other theories also have to be considered in the understanding of this phenomenon.

Outline:
Introduction and Overview
Theoretical Perspectives
Conclusion

From the Paper:

" There are a number of different characteristics that set Hispanic street gangs apart from other gang types. These include the fact that Hispanic gangs are more likely to develop along ethnic and racial lines. It should also be noted in this regard that the term "Hispanic" is a nebulous term which is often used to include other indigenous cultures such as "...Chicanos, Mexicans, El Salvadorians, Cubans, South Americans, and anyone else from a Spanish-speaking country." (THE PROBLEMS OF DEFINITIONS ) Latino gangs are usually mainly male dominated. "Females who seemed to be with the gang all the time were perceived as more of a support system, companions, girlfriends, and some were referred to as "party animals." (THE PROBLEMS OF DEFINITIONS ) "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Arfaniarromo, A. (2001). Toward a Psychosocial and Sociocultural Understanding of Achievement Motivation among Latino Gang Members in U. S. Schools. Journal of Instructional Psychology, 28(3), 123. Retrieved November 11, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5000891430
• Boose, D. W. (2003). Rethinking the Korean War. Parameters, 33(4), 175+. Retrieved November 10, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5002573236
• Coughlin, B. C., & Venkatesh, S. A. (2003). The Urban Street Gang after 1970. 41+.
• Duffy, M. P. & Gillig, S. E. (Eds.). (2004). Teen Gangs: A Global View. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press. Retrieved November 10, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=107029652
• Hechter, M., & Kanazawa, S. (1997). Sociological Rational Choice Theory. 191+. Retrieved November 10, 2006, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5000502751

More papers on Hispanic Drug Gangs:

• Research Paper # 101928 : "Street Gangs, Juvenile Violence, and Drugs"
• Essay # 6515 : "Gangs in Public Schools"
• Essay # 143706 : "How Today’s Economy Affects Gangs In America"

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