Art or Vandalism? An Analysis of Gangs’ Structure Using Graffiti

• In Event: Expanding the Visualization of Gang Activity

Abstract

Numerous misconceptions have occurred over time about gang members as they are often portrayed negatively. Common stereotypes include being uneducated, disorganized, fighting over colors or territory, largely without any historical context for these perceptions. It is a mantra that has been repeated for decades without a clear understanding of the methods by which gang members are indoctrinated and educated. The purpose of this study is to more thoroughly understand the complex structure of gangs as illustrated by various symbols found in gang graffiti. The current analysis involves a qualitative assessment of gang graffiti using field observations within the Central Valley of California from July 2018 to July 2019. The sample includes approximately one hundred images of graffiti representing three different groups of gangs spread across seven different cities. Findings reveal that street gangs are well organized and highly structured with connections that are tied to prison gangs through a common language, beliefs, and history that dates back to the 1950s. These results refute stereotypical perceptions that suggest gangs are generally involved in random or arbitrary crimes with little structure or organization.

Authors

• Sergio Coronel, Fresno State University

• James Mack Arthur Pitts, California State University, Fresno