This document provides instructions for a research paper that requires students to analyze theories of gang violence in the United States by discussing how one specific theory explains the source of gang violence. Students must identify the existence of gang violence in relation to one of several victimization theories, support their chosen theory with research evidence and statistics, thoroughly discuss the theory's assumptions based on a review of literature, and address the theory's strengths, weaknesses, and policy implications. The paper must follow APA format and cite at least two peer-reviewed sources.

1. Theory Critique
In a research paper, you are required to discuss if certain
theories explain the source of gang violence in the United
States. Specifically, your paper should clearly identify the
existence of gang violence in relation to
one specific theory.
Examples of such may include the following theories of
victimization:
Von Hentig’s Theory of Victimization
Mendelohn’s theory of Victimization
Routine Activities
Lifestyle Exposure theory of Victimization
Be sure to provide research evidence and statistical data(i.e.
government reports, etc) to support the credibility of the chosen
theory. Further, you are required to thoroughly discuss the
assumptions of the selected theory. This will include the review
of existing literature.
Requirements:
(1). APA format (including cover sheet and abstract)
(2). The paper should be a minimum of 3 typed written pages
(not including cover sheet, abstract and reference page)
(3). Include at 2 peer-reviewed articles

2. (4). Clearly identify the underlying assumptions of the selected
theory.
(5). Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the selected theory
(6). Discuss the policy implications associated with the selected
theory.