Gangs

A gang is a voluntary association of individuals who share a common name, symbols, and sometimes colors, and who organize around a social network with a defined territory or membership. Gangs typically seek to advance a collective identity and to control activities within a local area, using violence or intimidation to enforce rules and protect members.

Membership is often centered on adolescence and young adulthood, though adults may be involved. Recruitment can occur through family ties, peer networks, schools, or community settings. Gangs vary in structure from loosely connected street gangs to more organized entities with leaders, hierarchies, codes of conduct, and formalized routines. Some operate primarily in the street, while others are prison gangs or transnational organizations.

Common activities associated with gangs include drug distribution, robbery, extortion, weapons trafficking, and violent crime aimed at enforcing territory or resolving disputes. While many gangs operate locally, some participate in broader criminal enterprises or criminal networks that cross regional or national borders.

Sociological perspectives emphasize that economic marginalization, neighborhood disorganization, limited opportunities, family history, and peer influence contribute to gang involvement. Protective factors such as positive school engagement, family support, mentorship, and legitimate employment opportunities can reduce risk.

Policy and practice in responding to gangs often combine prevention, intervention, and enforcement. Prevention programs focus on education, youth development, and community resources; intervention seeks to disrupt gang activity and steer individuals away from crime; law enforcement measures vary from targeted suppression to deterrence and prosecutions. Effective approaches frequently rely on collaboration among law enforcement, social services, schools, and communities.

Notable examples include street gangs such as the Crips and Bloods in the United States, MS-13, and other regional groups that differ in structure and scope.