Gangs have existed in the US since the 19th century and are defined by a system of rules and codes of behavior. They serve as substitute families for socially excluded individuals and provide a sense of empowerment. The two largest gangs, the Bloods and the Crips, were both founded in Los Angeles in the 1970s and have since spread nationwide engaging in violent criminal activities like drug dealing. Youth are drawn to gangs due to factors like absent role models, lack of economic opportunities, and a desire for belonging. According to a 1998 survey, there are over 23,000 youth gangs in the US with over 600,000 members across all 50 states.

1. SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY OFGANGSFREMAN J. MURPHY

2. Gangs- socially excluded, alienated individuals loosely organized with informal leadershipGangs have been part of US culture since 19th century

3. Bound by ethnicity, race, social class

4. Defined by a system of rules, rituals, and codes of behavior19th Century GangsGangs were a means of economic survival

5. Seen as normal adolescent peer activity from conventional to wild behaviorGangs – (cont’d)Employ distinctive symbols:Style/color of dressHand signsTattoosGraffiti

6. Girls in Gangs- Usually have been a runaway at least once due to family issues Such as drug addiction, physical abuse, parent or parents in jail

7. GangsServe as a substitute family to members that join

8. Consist of a sense of empowerment amongst members defending a neighborhood, street, or territory

9. Financial gain through violent acts, criminal and delinquentGangs- (cont’d)Prevalent in neighborhoods where community network is weak

10. The absence of positive male role models is best predictor of gang membershipGangs and violenceGang access to firearms increases lethal violence in incidents that could have been settled with less than lethal meansYouth membership involvement in weapon use, drugs, criminal activity increasing in the culture of gangs

11. BLOODSFounded in Los Angeles in 1970s

12. Initially formed to compete with the CRIPS

13. Identified by the color red

14. Made up of various sub groups known as “sets”

15. Each differ depending on colors, clothing, operations, political ideas

16. Have branched out across the US, including throughout the US military