Comparing Different Methodological Approaches in Identifying Gang/Group Membership

• In Event: Patterns of Firearms Violence Across Four Cities

Abstract

Previous research suggests being a member of a gang or violent street group serves as a risk factor for subsequent involvement in gun crime. Although police departments typically follow formal criteria for designating individuals as gang members, there tends to be significant variation across agencies in the processes for gang member designation. This research will compare different methodological approaches in identifying gang and group membership through formal designation in police records, systematic incident review designation and social network analysis identification. This research draws from a sample of 123 victims and suspects of fatal and non-fatal shootings, in a large metropolitan city during an 18 month period. Comparisons are developed on the extent to which these different methods predict risk levels for involvement in gun violence.

Authors

• Lauren Magee, Michigan State University

• Edmund F. McGarrell, Michigan State University