Gangs: An Examination of Social Bonding Theory

• In Event: New Developments in Conflict Resolution

Abstract

In a study of 2221 U.S. 8th grade youth, this study found that social bonding on perceptions of gangs had mixed results. Parental bonding was not significant. School Bonding (loading = .16) was found to be the most important bond for influencing gang perceptions followed by Self Worth (loading = .13, p=.008) and Positive Peers (loading = .11, p=.002); as these variables increased the perceptions of gang influence was more pronounced. Contrary to finding by Travis Hirschi and others, parental bonding was not as important as suggested although Mom bonding is the strongest predictor over the dad. Indirect effects will be discussed.

Authors

• Anthony Vander Horst, The Ohio State University

• Richard G. Lomax, The Ohio State University