Why do young adults join gangs?
Through studies of self-admitted gang members, law enforcement has learned that the most common reasons for joining a gang are to be a part of a surrogate family, excitement, earn money, gain protection, peer pressure, and perceived lack of opportunities. About half of all gang members join willingly and about half are jumped or forced into the gang. Regardless of how they joined, the majority of gang members come from dysfunctional families, many have been victims of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, and many have low self-esteem and a lack of confidence. The bottom line is that gang members join the gang to get the types of human needs (love, affection, support, etc.) they’re not getting at home. What are the warning signs of gang involvement? Parents may notice some of these changes in a young adult who may be joining a gang: Change in friends, Change in hairstyle/dress, Change in attitude, Secretive about his or her activities, Change in places frequented, Increase in money/pos
