Discuss why gangs reemerged. Do you agree that economic and social conditions are factors in gang formation? Explain
What will be an ideal response?
• One reason for the increase in gang activity may be involvement in the sale of illegal drugs.
• Early gangs relied on group loyalty to encourage membership, but modern gang members are lured by the quest for drug profits. In some areas, gangs replaced organized crime families as the dominant suppliers of cocaine and crack.
• The traditional weapons of gangs—chains, knives, and homemade guns—were replaced by automatic weapons.
• Gang formation was also is the natural consequence of the economic and social dislocation that occurred when the economy shifted from a relatively high-paying manufacturing to low-wage service economy.
• Some U.S. cities that required a large population base for their manufacturing plants now face economic stress as these plants shut down. In this uneasy economic climate, gangs flourish, while the influence of successful adult role models and stable families declines.
• The presence of gangs in areas unaccustomed to delinquent group activity can have a devastating effect on community life.
• While this social dislocation was occurring, the media fell in love with gang images, which appeared in films and music videos. Gangsta rap became a national phenomenon.
• Because there has been a diffusion of the gang culture through the popular media, in which gang boys are made to appear as successful heroes, urban kids may find the lure of gangs and law-violating peer groups irresistible.
• Student views will vary.
You might also like to view...
HIV itself is actually just a viral reduction in the operation of one's immune system. It is not until some other disease or illness is contracted and, due to the individual's lowered immune system, AIDS develops
a. True b. False
Why did the role of constable fall into disfavor in the American colonies?
A. The office was rife with corruption and abuse of power. B. Most constables were untrained and believed to be unqualified as law officials. C. The functions were already being performed by sheriffs and justices of the peace. D. The role of constable was too great a reminder of the heavy hand of government the colonists were attempting to avoid.
The U.S. Coast Guard ships can stop and board any ________ vessel operating within a 12-mile radius of the U.S. shoreline.
Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).
According to research by Tolan and colleagues, what area did mentoring have the largest effect?
a. Reducing aggression/delinquency c. Reducing teen pregnancy b. Academic achievement d. Reducing alcohol and drug use