Gangs & Their Attraction Chapter One Statement of the Pro

1. An organized group with a leader.

2. A unified group that usually remains together during peaceful times as well as times of conflict.

3. A group whose members show unity through their language and clothing.

4. A group whose activities are criminal and threatening to the larger society.

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).

After World War II, gang membership became younger. The nationality of the membership changed, becoming primarily non

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aning, often referring to a group of close associates with no deviant or criminal connotations (Thrasher, 1927). At the same time, the term "gang" was also becoming associated with groups in socially disorganized and deteriorated inner-city neighborhoods; it was applied to youths who engaged in delinquencies ranging from truancy, street brawls, and beer running to race riots, robberies, and other serious crimes. Frederic Thrasher (1927), in his study of more than 1,300 delinquent gang members in Chicago, noted that no two gangs are exactly alike; however, he noted that delinquent gangs do possess a number of qualities, as social collectives, that set them apart from other social groups. Thrasher also noted that the gang is a group originally formed spontaneously and then integrated through conflict, stating that in general gangs can be characterized by the following types of behavior: 1. Meeting face to face. 2. Miling. 3. Movement through space as a unit. 4. Conflict and planning. The results of this collective behavior, according to Thrasher (1927), the development of tradition, unreflective internal structure, solidarity, morale, group awareness, and attachment to a local territory. This image of gangs stressed youth
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Approximate Word count = 5009
Approximate Pages = 20 (250 words per page)