Why do children in poverty join gangs?
Actually why does anyone join a gang? To your question-It gives a sense of belonging to something. Unlike poverty to which most children have no control over belonging to a gang gives the feeling of power and control. Most gang members have stated that they feel powerful and like they belong to something. They are in control. Most gang members are angry at society for their poverty. So belonging to a gang with others who share their anger along with the poverty gives them a sense of belonging. Gang activities are mostly things that go against government and authority. This stems back to the poverty issue in which they blame the government and anyone who is in a position of authority for their poverty. Most poverty stricken areas have very limited resources for kids and adults alike. These areas of poverty usually have no activity areas for children to go to and unleash their feelings or just be kids. So these kids end up with others like them selves delving into mischief in gangs.
