The Racial Composition of Gangs: Impacts on the Gang Member Experience

• In Event: The Psychological, Racial, and Social Underpinnings of Gangs and Violence

Abstract

The principle of homophily suggests that gangs and gang members will sort themselves among racial/ethnic lines. In fact, historically, gangs evolved in response to threats by other racial/ethnic groups, thus creating gangs among individuals with similar racial/ethnic backgrounds. However, more recent research finds evidence that street gangs are often racially and ethnically diverse, which could influence group processes, as well as the experiences of gang members. Little research has examined whether and/or how racially or ethnically mixed gangs differ from more racially/ethnically homogenous gangs. Using data from a multi-site sample of 3,820, we explore whether the racial/ethnic composition of the gang influences the experiences (e.g., behaviors, embeddedness, victimization) of individuals enmeshed in these gangs. Results indicate differences across individuals embedded in gangs of varying racial and ethnic compositions. This presentation will discuss implications for research and policy.

Authors

• Dena Carson, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

• Adrienne Freng, University of Wyoming

• Finn-Aage Esbensen, University of Missouri - St. Louis