Gang Affiliation Tattoo Removal: Examining Gender and Age Differences in Program Participation.

• In Event: The Challenges for Leaving Gangs

Abstract

The present study examines case files of youth participating in the Clean Slate Tattoo Removal Program. Clean Slate serves former gang-involved and at-risk youth between the ages of 14-25 who have found their tattoos to be a barrier to educational and employment opportunities. Clean Slate offers free tattoo removal to youth who are gang free, working or attending school, and committed to completing the program criteria, which includes graduating from an 8-week life skills course, 30 hours of community service, and regularly attend clinic appointments. Participants must be fully committed to the program until all visible tattoos have been removed. The present study is a preliminary examination of program participation retention between the years 2011 to 2014. We were specifically interested in examining whether retention varies by gender and age. Participants’ educational/employment status, incarceration history, substance use history, mental health, and victimization history was also examined.

Authors

• Veronica Herrera, San Jose State University

• Yevgeniy Mayba, San Jose State University