Klein and Maxson (2006) note that within the criminal justice system, a gang is defined as a group of people who associate continuously for the common purpose of engaging in criminal or delinquent activities. This paper examines why people join gangs, and describes the typical gang member in terms of age, gender, race, and culture. The paper concludes with an examination of the effects of poverty on gang membership and the crimes gangs commit.
Egley and Arjunan (2002) report that the National Youth Gang Survey if 2000 revealed that there are several reasons why young people join gangs. These reasons include a search for love, and belonging and the need for some sort of structure and discipline. Often, young people want a group that they can commit to. There can also be a need for recognition and/or power, companionship, excitement, and activities. In some cases, teens are looking for a sense of self-worth, status, and acceptance. Others see the gang as fulfilling their need for physical safety and protection. For others, it is just a matter of 'family tradition.'
Typical Gang Members: Age, Race, Gender, Culture
Edgar (2004) points out that gangs are not just a big city problem. Rural areas also have gangs. Further, gangs are not restricted to a particular race or culture; rather, gangs cross ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, gender and geographic boundaries. However, Edgar also states that there are some typical socio-demographic patterns that do describe the average gang member. First, the typical gang member is a youth between the ages of 12 and 24 with an average of age of 17 years. Older gang members are more likely to be involved in serious and violent crimes than younger gang members.
Edgar (2004) also points out that for the majority of young people who do join gangs, gang membership is relatively short. About one-half to two-thirds of gang members leave the gang after being in it
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