First Summarize The Definition Of Aggression By The U.S. Dep
Firstsummarize The Definition Of Agangused By The Us Department Of
First, summarize the definition of a gang used by the U.S. Department of Justice, then invent a fictional character and explain at least 3 specific elements, known or unknown to him or her, that influenced his or her decision to join a gang. Consider their parental influences, community, home environment, school performance, and so on. Once these elements have been explained, address at least 1 myth related to gang activity.
Paper For Above instruction
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) defines a gang as a group of three or more individuals who share a common identifying sign, symbol, or name and who engage in a pattern of criminal activity or use of violence (U.S. Department of Justice, 2010). Gangs often operate within a specific geographical area and promote a sense of identity and belonging among their members. Their activities can include drug trafficking, turf wars, assault, theft, and other criminal acts. The DOJ emphasizes that gangs are characterized not only by their criminal conduct but also by their organizational structures, identifiers such as tattoos or colors, and their social cohesion (Esbensen & Osgood, 2012). Recognizing these elements helps law enforcement and communities address gang-related issues more effectively.
To humanize the understanding of gang involvement, let us consider a fictional character, Michael, a 16-year-old boy living in an urban neighborhood with a high prevalence of gang activity. Several factors influenced his decision to join a gang, some known and others hidden. First, Michael's parental influences played a critical role; his father was incarcerated for drug-related offenses, which created a household environment marked by instability and negative role models. His mother worked multiple jobs to survive, leaving Michael unsupervised for long hours, which made him vulnerable to peer influence. Second, community environment and neighborhood conditions significantly impacted his choices. The area was plagued with violence, drug dealers, and limited access to positive recreational activities or youth programs, fostering a sense of danger and survival mentality. Third, school performance and peer interactions contributed to his involvement. Michael struggled academically due to a learning disability and faced bullying, leading him to seek acceptance and belonging elsewhere. The gang offered a sense of identity, protection, and social recognition that he lacked elsewhere.
One common myth about gang activity is that gangs primarily target only other gangs or rival groups, and their violence is localized and limited. However, in reality, gang violence often spills over into broader community members, leading to innocent victims and extensive societal harm. Gangs may also engage in illicit activities that impact larger markets, such as drug distribution networks that operate across regions, not just within a gang’s immediate neighborhood. Understanding this misconception is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. Addressing the root causes, such as poverty, lack of education, and social disorganization, is vital for reducing gang proliferation and associated violence (Howell, 2010).
In conclusion, the DOJ’s definition emphasizes the organizational and criminal nature of gangs, which influence individual decisions and community safety. Personal stories like Michael’s highlight the importance of addressing environmental and social factors that lead youth toward gang involvement. Dispelling myths about gangs can promote more comprehensive and empathetic approaches to prevention, emphasizing community resilience and positive youth development.
References
- Esbensen, F. A., & Osgood, D. W. (2012). Youth Gangs in American Society. Routledge.
- Howell, J. C. (2010). Gang Prevention: An Overview of Research and Programs. Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.
- U.S. Department of Justice. (2010). Gangs: An Overview. Federal Bureau of Investigation.