Gangs Overview

At issue in this essay is an analysis of the causes and effects of gang-related activity in the United States. Macionis (2003) estimated that there are more than 23,000 youth "gangs" in the country engaged in some type of criminal activity with membership well over 650,000 individuals; however, the extent of the truly violent and dangerous gangs in the country, including both youth and adult groups, is somewhat less. Nevertheless, these gangs are seen by Siegel and Senna (2000) as largely responsible for such ongoing problems as violent crime in urban enclaves, crimes against property, and increased drug sales and use. This report will explore such groups and efforts to prevent or contain their activities.

Juvenile delinquency is defined as participation in illegal behavior by a minor who falls under a statutory age limit (Siegel & Senna, 2000). More than two million American youths are arrested each year for crimes ranging in seriousness from loitering to murder; many of these young people are members of criminal gangs whose activities range from simple vandalism to drug sales and use, robbery and assault, burglary, and violent conflicts with rival organizations in their territories. . Although most juvenile violations tend to be minor, some young offenders are extremely dangerous and violent and gang involvement is a clear indicator of a propensity or potential for violent criminal behavior. Serving this population and society is the juvenile justice system, th

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lities. Many risk factors for becoming involved in gang activity have been identified. Phillip Comey (2005) stated that a substantial number of juvenile offenders are born to dysfunctional families; live in poverty; suffer from a variety of social problems, including poor physical and mental health; may be victims of abuse or neglect; and may be at risk for academic failure. Young people who move into gang life or criminal behavior represent a substantial number of the total arrestees in the United States each year. Whereas children who broke the law in the past were dealt with harshly, it is only recently that society has become more sensitive to the special needs of children. Siegel and Senna (2000) stated that the current treatment of juvenile delinquents is a byproduct of a developing national consciousness and the philosophy of parens Patriae which states that minors engaging in extralegal behavior are viewed as victims of improper care, custody, and treatment at home. In this philosophical orientation, illegal behavior is seen as a sign that the state should step in and take control of youths before they commit crimes that are more serious. Based on this ideological view, the juvenile justice system has identifi

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