Understanding Gang Involvement: A Psychological Perspective

Authored by Jane L Wood, Jaimee Mallion, and Sarah Frisby-Osman, Psychology of Gang Involvement delves into the intricacies of gang membership, exploring the psychological factors that contribute to gang formation and sustenance. This comprehensive book bridges the knowledge gap by applying psychological principles to understand how gang members think, feel, and perceive their involvement in gangs.

Divided into three sections, this book offers a nuanced understanding of the crucial role social psychological processes play in gang formation and maintenance. Readers will gain insight into gang members’ social cognition, emotional intelligence, well-being, and mental health, as well as how these factors potentially promote and sustain individual gang involvement. The book also examines how these psychological characteristics vary according to an individual’s commitment to a gang.

Theoretical Perspectives on Gang Involvement

The first section of the book focuses on theoretical perspectives, with in-depth examinations of a gang member’s experiences and their implications for theoretical development. It also explores the importance of social and psychological issues, such as group processes and levels of commitment to gang membership, in understanding and explaining gang involvement.

The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Gang Membership

The second section delves into the links between adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and gang membership, examining these as potential risk factors and outcomes of gang involvement. It also compares the mental health, traumatic experiences, and involvement in violence between gang members and other violent men in adulthood.

Effective Gang Prevention and Intervention Strategies

The final section assesses current responses to gang membership, evaluating individual and group-based approaches to gang prevention and intervention strategies. It concludes with a theoretical conceptualization of how a strengths-based approach could work to reduce gang involvement.

This book is an essential resource for academics, students, practitioners, youth workers, clinicians, and criminal justice agents working with or interested in gang members. With its in-depth analysis and comprehensive approach, Psychology of Gang Involvement is an invaluable tool for understanding and addressing gang involvement.

Book Details:

• Publisher: Routledge
• Edition: 1st edition (November 9, 2022)
• Language: English
• Pages: 164
• ISBN-10: 103215151X
• ISBN-13: 978-1032151519