What causes gangs to emerge?

 

November 9, 2017

A recent uptick in gang violence in Santa Ana has prompted renewed efforts to prevent gang violence. But why do gangs emerge in some areas and not others? Gangs are more common in areas with poverty, institutionalized racism, lack of opportunities, poor resources in schools, overextended parents and inadequate supervision, Cheryl Maxson, professor of criminology, law and society, told The Orange County Register.

Still, most adolescents don't join gangs.

"Even in neighborhoods with many gangs, it is estimated that 7 or 8 out of 10 adolescents will not join," Maxson told the Register.

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