What factors contributed to the proliferation of gang activity in the 1970s–1990s?
Miller’s (1975; 1982/1992) pioneering multicity gang surveys documented the growth of gangs in the 1970s and continuing into the early 1990s (Miller, 2001). In the course of these studies, Miller identified several interacting factors that contributed to the growth of gang problems; other gang researchers have also noted some parallel trends. First, population growth and movement, aided by the expansion of automobiles and highways, partially contributed to the number of localities reporting gangs between the 1970s and 1990s (Miller, 2001). Second and relatedly, gangs began to emerge in suburban areas and smaller cities (Miller, 1982/1992). Third, family migration spread the gang culture to new areas (Maxson, 1998). For further discussion, see FAQ No. 6. Fourth, court-mandated busing may have contributed to the spread of gangs (Hagedorn, 1988; Huff, 1989). Numerous other contributing factors have been suggested in the gang literature and popular media; but research support for most of t
