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Gang Theory, 1989.
Describes social theories explaining gang formation & membership. Examines social deviance, social disorganization, control & strain models and delinquency theory.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 4 sources, $ 47.95
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From the Paper
"Who joins the gang? On the surface this question seems to have a clear answer. However, answers often pertain to individual characteristics due to the individual nature of the question. Most people assume that potential gang members are plain hoodlums, or people who desire and even accept criminal activity as a way of life. For this reason calculated solutions to the gang problem frequently revolve around methods of dealing with the individual such as counselors or the youth authority and even prison. But as time has told these are ineffective. Recent media attention of gang activity illustrates this failure. Consequently the need for a different approach emerges. One of the initial steps in the process of understanding all of the dynamics of the gang problem lies in recognizing the gang issue as a social one. At this point (...)"
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Sociological Theory: Gang Behavior, 2002.
A discussion on the fundamental components of sociological theory, examining gang behavior using symbolic interactionism and conflict theory.
3,575 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 99.95
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Abstract
This essay is a basic introduction to the fundamental components of a sociological theory. Included is a comprehensive analysis of both conflict theory and symbolic interactionism. Gang behavior is used to illustrate key terms and concepts from each theory, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.
From the Paper
"Theories serve several functions in the development and evaluation of scientific knowledge. Theories provide us with systematic procedures to evaluate social phenomenon. These procedures are well organized and comprehensive. Theories are not just knowledge structures; they are sets of interrelated statements that apply to a wide range of phenomenon. Chafetz said, ?in theory construction, the exercise is only more systematic, comprehensive, more guided and constrained by rules, and finally is more self-conscience? (Chafetz, p. 2). "
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Gangs and Gang Warfare, 2003.
Discusses African-American and Latino young men's involvement in gangs.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 6 sources, $ 39.95
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Abstract
Discusses the nature of gangs. Examines why children and teenagers join gangs. Considers children at-risk and gang involvement. Reviews and critiques five studies on gangs and violence, and discusses the methods of the studies.
From the Paper
"Over the last 20 years in the city of Los Angeles at least 10,000 African American and Latino young men have died due to gang activity and gang warfare (Vigil, 2002). As large as that figure is it is still only a portion of the deaths..."
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Teen Gangs, 2006.
This paper discusses teen gangs and the theories behind why teenagers join these gangs.
1,625 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, while the primary purpose of gangs may be to engage in criminal activity, they serve other social functions that attract teens as gang members. The author points out that researchers have developed a variety of different theories to explain the proliferation of gangs such as criminological theories, which focus on the social aspects of crime and gang membership. The author points out that the advocates of social disorganization theory suggest that this theory is more comprehensive than any of the criminological theories and may be able to supply a broader solution to the gang problem.
From the Paper
"In addition, many people believe that gangs are only an urban problem. This impression has a basis in reality; the majority of gang activity is concentrated in large cities and suburban areas. Furthermore, these areas large urban and suburban areas are more likely to report long-established gang activity. However, gang activity is spreading to smaller urban and rural areas. The spread of gang activity may be very significant because of the composition differences between established and newer gangs."
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Chicago School Theory, 2003.
Discusses the usefulness of Chicago School Theory as a tool for explaining the growth of gangs in cities where gangs had not conventionally been dynamic.
2,573 words (approx. 10.3 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 77.95
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Abstract
This paper explains in depth the rationality of the theory known as the Chicago School Theory which rationalizes why urban and delinquent crime develop in certain areas and over certain periods of time. It discusses the development of this theory and why it is applicable to the problem of gangs and juvenile delinquency.
From the Paper
"Clifford Shaw and Henry McKay noted that juvenile delinquents tended to live in certain neighborhoods. It did not take long for the two researchers to begin looking at the high-delinquency neighborhoods to see what made them different from neighborhoods that had less delinquency. They found that delinquents appeared to come from neighborhoods characterized by low rental fees, a high incidence of individuals supported by public assistance, a high percentage of industrial (low-level blue collar) workers, and a high rate of individuals moving into and out of the area (i.e., the population is in flux)."
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Criminology Theory, 2008.
This paper discusses criminological theory and family patterns of substance abuse, focusing on the article "Drugs in the Blood" by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc.
1,670 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
In this paper, the author relates that the occurrence of community crime is very rarely isolated or phenomenological. The author goes on to say that the involvement of individuals, communities and demographics in drug-dealing, substance abuse, gang violence and legal maladjustment of all variety does not occur in a vacuum, but is likely to be the product of patterned conditioning and sociological stimuli. Additionally, the author explains that a set of circumstances contextualizing a person, a family and a neighborhood will not just have a formative impact on the way the individual is able to integrate into mainstream society, but will likewise influence the decisions, behaviors and consequences shaping his future. The writer then discusses these points through an examination of Nicole LeBlanc's 2002 article, "Drugs in the Blood", and the young man, Drew, around whom the article centers.
From the Paper
"Such models as Merton's Strain Theory help to provide a sociological basis for articulating the circumstances facing Drew and many individuals found in environments similar to his. His family life is distinguished, according to LeBlanc's article, by the chemical dependencies afflicting his mother and his father. Likewise, the only form of institutional structure which seems to consistently appear in his life is correctional incarceration. With his mother in and out of prison for drug-dealing and he himself occasionally ensnared on offenses of the same nature, it is apparent that exposure to criminality is commonplace for Drew. This commonness serves to categorize Drew's condition under the Merton model, implying that there are contextual reasons rather than individual ones for the deviance from accepted social behavior which will be displayed by the person in question."
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The Gang Family, 2002.
Examining theories which relate to gangs being substitute families for its members, and what attracts members to gangs.
4,734 words (approx. 18.9 pages), 20 sources, MLA, $ 121.95
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Abstract
The proposed research examines whether young boys are attracted to gangs because they meet needs which are not met by their families. The study first presents a review of the pertinent research. The first section of the review discusses the basic nature of gangs. The second section examines literature related to the thesis that gangs meet needs that are unmet by gang members' families. The third and final section of the review develops conclusions about gangs and the needs thesis. The study tests the "traditional family" theory of gang attraction. Specifically, the study determines whether or not gangs serve as a substitute for traditional families in terms of meeting the needs of these children and adolescents who compose its membership by collecting data from high school males who are gang members to find out if they perceive the gang as meeting those basic needs that tend to be met by family. Further, in an effort to get additional insight into gang members' perceptions of the gang, meeting their needs, some comparisons is made between their perceptions and those of their non-gang counterparts.
From the Paper
"This study focuses on gangs that fall within the scope of the last provided definition. Prior to the early 1800s, no gangs fitting this definition could be found in America. However, from the beginning of the European settlement in America, there was gang-like activity, especially as class distinctions developed (Olen, 1991). Gang members tended to be from the poorer classes and were typically composed of members of the same race or ethnic backgrounds.
These early gangs banded together for protection or financial gain. In the 19th century, criminally-oriented gangs were first formed. These gangs were formed as the result of a worsening economy and a growing population that increased competition for jobs; soon, gangs began to specialized in crime and became a part of America's cities (Quicker, 1983)."
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The Development of the Street Gang, 2005.
This paper critically evaluates the Chicago school theory about the development of street gangs.
2,525 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Chicago school theory, a legacy in the field of criminology, hypothesized in the 1920s and 1930s, states that where social institutions, norms and values are no longer functioning, high rates of violence, drug abuse, poverty and disease occur. The author points out pitfalls in this theory such as (1) gangs do not only exist in communities with few personal binds between residents and, even within ghettos, there are dependable residency patterns and strong community member ties and (2) the theory is based on spherical reasoning that is, social disorganization is the reason of criminal behavior, and crime is an indicator of social disorganization. The paper relates that the Chicago School theory fails to grasp that the contemporary street gang is planned as a business usually a drug-dealing business; therefore, this theory can no longer be used to understand these gangs.
From the Paper
"A number of the initial work in the crime appeared from the University of Chicago in the 1920's. The job done at this school recognized long traditions of theories to help explain why crime occurs, and what to do regarding it. It incorporated the work of Robert Park, Ernest Burgess, Frederick Thrasher, and in later years the Chicago School theory of Clifford Shaw and Henry McKay. The crime deterrence plans appeared from this work, such as the Chicago Area Projects which ran for over half a century, were based on a simple notion: the finest unit of analysis to study crime was the neighborhood and the interrelationships of diverse groups within the neighborhood, such as the street gang. The ecology of crime approach used the neighborhood as the level of analysis, and it conceptualizes the neighborhood as a communal ecosystem."
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Criminal Gangs, 2002.
A discussion of how and why criminal gangs are formed.
1,344 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how there are many social theories that work in tandem when it comes to a gang and its members and how the combination of those theories provide the foundation that the gang is based in. Gangs act as one unit in many instances though they are individuals who commit the actual acts of crime. It looks at how the need to conform and not feeling like they fit in elsewhere is usually an important element in the decision to join a gang and looks at some of theories that explain the willingness to commit crimes in the name of the gang that one would not commit on their own.
From the Paper
"There are several theories about why youth join gangs and why gangs exist. Social bonding and control theories are often credited for the ability for a gang to exist and succeed in its purpose. The social bonding theory and the control theory share many ideas. The theories believe that children who are lacking in support at home as well as supervision have a higher chance of turning to delinquency than children who do not have such issues. In addition children who turn to delinquency according to social bonding theorists do not feel close to their parents and they do not receive validation or affection at home."
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Gangs, 2002.
An insight to the sociology of gangs and gang warfare.
2,475 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
This paper aims to provide a basic understanding of the sociology of gangs, including the definition of gangs, the main reasons for joining gangs, sociological characteristics commonly found in gang members, behavior of gangs and the impact of gangs on today?s society. According to guidelines, a gang is best defined as a group of youths that commit crimes and identifies with other members of the gang for this purpose. It discusses the conflict theory, that the juvenile becomes a delinquent individual due to conflicts and strain theory, that people are socialized to desire a cultural goal but denied the means to reach it and addresses how these theories can be applied to society.
From the Paper
"According to Merton?s strain theory, gang members are products of their society. Different social classes have distinct styles of crime due to differential access to institutionalized means of achieving socially acceptable goals. Therefore, youths that are economically and socially challenged do not have equal opportunities to financial success. Therefore, they may be more drawn into certain crimes than youths that have had better opportunities. "
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Youth Gangs, 2006.
This paper examines the increase in gangs and gang related violence in America, as well as the available programs and strategies to combat this growing problem.
1,170 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
The writer of this informative paper details the growing number of gangs and membership to gangs which have become a public security threat that communities are now recognizing that must be addressed. This paper supplies relevant statistics and data relating to gangs and various acts of gang violence. Approximately half of all youth gang members are 18 years or older and thus more likely to become involved in serious and violent crimes than younger gang members. This paper discusses the spread of gangs across America. While gangs have been a problem in L.A. for years, and account for roughly 50% of the city's murders, gangs are now responsible for 41% of the homicides in Omaha, Nebraska. This paper details the various preventative measures and programs available to curtail this growing problem. The writer contends and explains why preventing adolescents from joining gangs seems to be the most cost-effective long-term strategy. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms has implemented a school-based gang prevention program that has shown positive preliminary results. The writer of this paper stresses the need for communities to organize a collaborative approach to gang problems from the outset rather than beginning with a predominantly suppression strategy.
From the Paper
"Since 1980, the United States has witnessed a rapid proliferation of youth gangs. According to a 1998 Juvenile Justice Bulletin, there were roughly 286 gang jurisdictions with some 2,000 gangs and approximately 100,000 gang members in 1980. By 1996, there were some 4,800 jurisdictions with more than 31,000 gangs and an estimated 846,000 gang members. In an eleven-city survey of eighth graders, researchers found than nine percent were currently gang members, while seventeen percent stated they had belonged to a gang at some point in their lives. Other studies show similar percentages and also indicated that gang members were responsible for a large proportion of violent offenses."
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Gangs on the Street and in Prison, 2006.
An overview of the gang problem in the United States and the relationship between gangs on the street and gangs in prison.
2,779 words (approx. 11.1 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper investigates gang life on the streets and gang life in prisons and looks at the relationship between these two types of gang membership. The paper also looks at trends in gang membership, the primary reasons that youth join gangs, societal factors contributing to gang membership, and the feeling of family that gangs provide many youth. The paper also includes interviews of youths from street gangs and prison gangs and concludes that prison life is merely an extension of gang life for many of the youth that are behind bars.
From the Paper
"The problem from the law enforcement angle is: "who is in charge?" There is a see-saw effect between the government or various governmental agencies and the parents. Of course, the focus is on dysfunctional families, frequently one-parent, over-burdened, poverty-stricken families. There are two choices for society: to completely turn their back, as is happening all too often, is to do something to provide an opportunity and a look at a better future for disillusioned, frustrated, angry juvenile offenders."
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Hispanic Drug Gangs, 2007.
An examination of the population and issues associated with Hispanic drug gangs.
1,695 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 14 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
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 ) "
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Gang Banging in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 2006.
A discussion of gangs and gang related activities in the city of Pittsburgh.
2,079 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper describes and discusses the approach to gangs and gang related activities taken by the citizens and leaders of Pittsburgh. The paper explains how their approach was effective in finding resolutions to the gang problem because they had the the foresight to recognize that gang activity would only become a larger problem if not dealt with in an open and forthright manner. The paper also suggests that the approach is one that should be modeled in other cities where gangs and gang activity is a problem.
Table of Contents
Abstract
Report of 110 Jurisdictions on Gangs
The Pittsburgh Solution
Involving the Community
Conclusions
From the Paper
"From the latest figures available from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) one finds some rather startling facts and figures concerning so-called "Gang-banging," as reported by the police and community agencies of the 79 major cities and 43 smaller cities in the United States of America. Some - but by no means all - of the key issues concerning gang activity are difficult to obtain because of variations within reporting jurisdictions. For example, what constitutes a gang and gang-related incidents are a problem in the overwhelming majority of large and small U. S. cities surveyed."
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Gangs, 2002.
The differences between prison gangs and street gangs.
2,400 words (approx. 9.6 pages), 11 sources, $ 89.95
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Abstract
This paper gives an overview of the differences between prison and street gangs in the United States.
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