day. Are gangs western societies way of introducing boys into emerging adults (manhood)? It

has become evident that gangs made up of young people are causing numerous problems

throughout communities. Gang violence and gang activities impact all of those around the gang

members. The kids in these gangs are hurting themselves, each other, their families, and the

communities they belong to. Gangs effect the children in many different ways including

physcially, emotionally and cognitively. Before we can understand how gangs effect the people

and communities around them we must first define what gangs actually are. We must try and

understand how the gang members think, how they react to certain situations, and what makes

Why do youths join gangs in the frist place? There are many different reasons for this but

some of the main attributes are: Family substition, friendship, economic benefit, power status,

security, love, thrill and excitement. This is normally due to the fact that the child feels

unwanted and is need of attention. It is also a way that adolescense develop into puberty. They

gaining respect and dignity for one’s self (De La Chanca !991). This category of crimes was the

established set of gang rules, norms, and values. Much like honor crimes, traditional male

irrespective of initial motive, and they are characteristic of both vigilante and honor crimes.

markers are also used to make "tattoos".

traditional male gender role value orientation that stresses the importance of avoiding shame and

Some topics in this essay:
Self Recruitment, Crime Context, Lopez Emmer, , Honor Crimes, Assault Context, Misrepresentation Gangs, Crimes Vigilante, Threats Coercion, Assault Crimes, honor crimes, crimes committed, gang crimes, driven/violent assault, crime context, vigilante crimes, belief driven/violent, belief driven/violent assault, joining gangs, crimes committed protect, beliefs supportive, committed protect, driven/violent assault crime, self-preservation gang crimes, male gender role,