Myths and Realities: Clarifying Gangs

These flashcards cover key concepts and realities surrounding gangs, including common myths, sociological theories, and the daily life of gang members.

What is a common portrayal of gang members according to Moore (1993)?

Gang members are often depicted as violent, drug-using, sexually hyperactive males involved in criminal behavior.

What does Big Gang Theory suggest about youths joining gangs?

Youths join gangs primarily out of a need for protection, but most are not effective at providing it.

What is the reality about the organization of most gangs?

Most gangs are loosely organized rather than highly organized as commonly portrayed.

What does the 'Gang migration myth' claim?

It claims that street gangs migrate to establish satellite groups in the U.S. for drug trafficking.

What is the reality about where most youth gangs originate?

Most youth gangs are homegrown and do not extend their networks beyond 100 miles.

What do the myths about gangs, drugs, and violence imply?

They imply that gangs control drug distribution and are inherently violent.

What is the reality of gang members' criminal activity according to Klein (1995)?

Gang life is generally dull, and members do very little in terms of committing crime.

What does 'gang-motivated crime' refer to?

Crimes committed on behalf of the gang or in furtherance of a gang function.

What does 'gang-related crime' refer to?

Crime involving a gang member, irrespective of whether it benefits the gang.

What is a common misconception about the permanence of gang membership?

The myth is that all gang membership is permanent, while in reality, many leave within a year.

What is a notable exception regarding gang membership duration?

Prison gangs often have members with permanent commitments due to severe initiation rites.

What is a common myth about the relationships between gangs with the same name?

That gangs with the same names are usually connected or affiliated.

What is the reality about age of joining gangs?

Many youth want to join gangs, which often begins during the transition to middle school.

What is an extreme initiation rite associated with gangs?

While many gangs have beat-downs or jump-ins, requiring members to victimize innocents is rare.

Who primarily recruits new gang members?

New members are mostly recruited by other youths, not adults.

What does the notion of 'super predator' refer to in terms of gang members?

It suggests that gang members represent a dangerous new wave of youth involved in crime.

Was gang involvement central to the crack cocaine epidemic?

No, evidence linking street gangs to the crack epidemic is very limited.

What is the reality of drug trafficking in relation to gangs?

Most drug trafficking is managed by drug cartels, not street gangs.

What are 'shot callers' within a gang?

Individuals who may vary responsibilities and tasks within the gang.

What is the misconception related to gang members' social lives?

That gang life is defined by constant criminal activity when much is actually mundane.

Which cities are noted for having more extended gang memberships?

Chicago and Los Angeles are highlighted for their historical gang problems.

What is one of the major reasons youth are attracted to join gangs?

Gangs offer appealing social opportunities that attract youths.

What can contribute to a gang's perceived danger?

Gangs create myths about themselves to appear more dangerous for protection.

What does it mean when a gang is described as having an informal division of labor?

This means that while not strictly organized, some members take on leadership roles.

What is a common belief about gang violence?

That it is predominantly driven by drug trafficking and organized crime.

What is the difference between gang members and gang associates?

Gang members are officially recognized as part of the gang, while associates may not be.

What does identifying as a gang member often create?

It creates a sense of identity and belonging for the individual.

How do gangs signal their protection by larger city gangs?

Through displays of violence, symbols, and behavior that indicate danger.

What does a 'blood in, blood out' mentality signify?

It indicates that leaving a gang often involves serious risks or violence.

What factors influence the territory of gangs?

Gang networks are usually localized, often not extending beyond their home city.

What psychological need do youth often fulfill by joining gangs?

A need for belonging and identity during adolescence.

How do most youth perceive the initiation into gangs?

As a significant rite of passage to gain respect and acceptance.

What is the first step many youth take before officially joining a gang?

They often begin as associates or seekers of acceptance before full membership.

In challenging stereotypes, what is a common theme about gang members' activities?

Their day-to-day life is often more about socializing than committing crimes.

What does Klein (1995) suggest about researchers observing gang members?

They often find the gang members' lives to be quite dull and repetitive.

How does the perception of gangs change over time in different neighborhoods?

Gangs' influence and activities can evolve based on social changes in neighborhoods.

What is the effect of media portrayals on public perception of gangs?

Media often exaggerates the violent and organized nature of gangs, creating myths.

What do gangs often rely on to maintain reputation and influence?

The perception of danger and the presence of established social hierarchies.

What does gang identity provide to its members?

A sense of belonging, purpose, and sometimes protection from outside threats.