Who are the young people in gangs?
Gang members are normally between the ages of 10 and 21. Most have not performed well in school, and many have dropped out. Typically, the most deeply involved gang members have histories of being without adult supervision for extended periods of time, on a daily basis, from an early age. These young people turn to gangs in search of acceptance, companionship, recognition, and a feeling of belonging. Note! Not every child who experiments with gang styles is a gang member. Don’t jump to conclusions. If you suspect gang involvement, talk to the child and above all, listen.
