Define the concept “youth gang.” As discussed in the text, what difficulties might one confront in trying to appropriately define the concept? Why is it so important to define a concept precisely?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Do you have a clear image in mind when you hear the term youth gangs? Although this is a very ordinary term, social scientists’ attempts to define precisely the concept youth gang have not yet succeeded: “Neither gang researchers nor law enforcement agencies can agree on a common definition... and a concerted national effort... failed to reach a consensus” (Howell, 2003). Exhibit 4.1 lists a few of the many alternative definitions of youth gangs.
As you can see, there are many different ideas about what constitutes a gang. What is the basis of this conceptual difficulty? Howell (2003) suggests that defining the term youth gangs has been difficult for four reasons:
• Youth gangs are not particularly cohesive.
• Individual gangs change their focus over time.
• Many have a “hodgepodge of features,” with diverse members and unclear rules.
• There are many incorrect but popular “myths” about youth gangs. (pp. 27–28)
In addition, youth gangs are only one type of social group, and it is important to define youth gangs in a way that distinguishes them from these other types of groups—for example, childhood play groups, youth subculture groups, delinquent groups, and adult criminal organizations. Whenever you define a concept, you need to consider whether the concept is unidimensional or multidimensional. If it is multidimensional, your job of conceptualization is not complete until you have specified the related subconcepts that belong under the umbrella of the larger concept. And finally, the concept you define must capture an idea that is distinctly separate from related ideas.