Understanding Gangs: A Comprehensive Introduction

Are you looking for a comprehensive overview of gangs, covering their history, theories, and real-life examples? Look no further than Gangs: An Introduction, a wide-ranging textbook ideal for courses on gangs and criminology.

A Historical Perspective

The book begins by exploring early research and perspectives on gangs from the late 1920s to the early 1970s, providing a solid foundation for understanding the evolution of gang culture. This historical context sets the stage for a deeper examination of gangs and their impact on society.

Defining Gangs

What constitutes a gang? The book delves into sociological and legal definitions, helping readers understand the complexities of gang formation and activity. From daily life to risk and protective factors, this in-depth exploration covers it all.

Race, Immigration, and Gender in Gangs

Gangs are often associated with marginalized communities, and this book addresses the intersection of race, immigration, and gender in gang culture. Female gang members, in particular, are often overlooked, and this text sheds light on their experiences and roles within gangs.

The Dark Side of Gangs: Violence, Drug Use, and Victimization

No discussion of gangs would be complete without examining the darker aspects of gang life, including drug use and selling, violence, and victimization. The book provides a nuanced exploration of these issues, highlighting the human cost of gang activity.

Theories of Gangs and Gang Behavior

What drives gang behavior? This textbook explores various theories, from cultural criminology to desistance, suppression, intervention, and prevention. By understanding the underlying mechanisms, readers can better appreciate the complexities of gang behavior.

Real-Life Examples and Evidence-Based Practices

The book is filled with original contributions to the gang literature, featuring real-life court cases, interview excerpts from gang members, and Media Check! sections that illustrate gang culture through movies, documentaries, TV shows, and music. These examples bring the theoretical concepts to life, making the text more engaging and accessible.

Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publication Date: February 22, 2016
Language: English
Pages: 400
ISBN-10: 0199948593
ISBN-13: 978-0199948598