Who are They? Ethno-Cultural Characteristics, Street Gang Association and Adhesion to Gang Culture

• In Event: Ethno Cultural Characteristics, Risky Behaviors and Mental Health Problems: A Comparison Between Street Gang and Non-Street Gang Young Offenders

Abstract

The high prevalence of youths coming from ethnic minorities in Youth Centers in Quebec is a complex and concerning issue. This paper presents results of a quantitative study exploring the role played by ethnic identity (as measured by the Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure – Revised, Phinney & Ong, 2007) on offenders’ self-reported delinquency, street gang association and adherence to street gang culture. Young offenders from a variety of ethnic backgrounds participated in the study (n=69, aged 14-20 years). The results suggest that higher levels of ethnic identity are associated with reporting more crimes against the person and starting drug trafficking at a younger age. Ethnic identity level did not differ between delinquent youths who reported association with a street gang and ones who did not. However, young offenders who reported adhering to gang culture reported exploring their ethnic identity more. Explanations from a developmental perspective will be discussed as well as possible interventions adapted to the reality and cultural backgrounds of young offenders.

Authors

• Manuelle Beriault, University of Sherbrooke

• Catherine Laurier, University of Montreal

• Jean-Pierre Guay, University of Montreal

• Chantal Fredette, College Ahunstic