Many parents are concerned with the influence that gangs can have on their teenagers. It seems as though gang violence and gang membership have increased over the years. Current surveys indicate that approximately seven percent of teens throughout the United States admit to being gang members.
Furthermore, approximately 20 percent of teens personally know someone who has been killed or injured by gang members (U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2009). Gang problems have become so wide spread that in some cities as many as 70 percent of all shooting deaths among teens are perpetrated by gang members (U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2009). In Denver, for example, while gang members make up about 14 percent of the teenaged population, they account for 89 percent of all violent crimes (U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2008).
Warning Signs
Most gang members are between 12 and 25 years old. The average is 17, with a full 25 percent between the ages of 15 and 17 (U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, 2008). There are several social cues, some of which resemble normal teen behavior, which could indicate that your teen is becoming involved in gang activity. A loss of interest in family activities and a desire to hide activities from parents may seem typical of many adolescents, but these behaviors can also be an early warning sign of possible gang involvement. Additionally, a loss of interest in school or extracurricular activities could indicate a problem with gangs.
A sudden change in your teen's friends and personal style can as well be a sign of trouble. While it is always advisable to get to know who your children's friends are; it can be particularly important if those new friends are gang members. If your teen likes to draw or doddle, keep an eye on those drawings. Gang symbols drawn on personal belongings can point to the fact that your teen is at least thinking about a gang affiliation. Many gangs use clothing to identify themselves. An abrupt change in your teen's wardrobe, especially one that includes wearing the same colors all the time, could be an indication of gang involvement.
There are two major warning signs that are strong signals of gang involvement. Run-ins with police or other authority figures can be a powerful indicator of gang involvement as criminal activity is a large part of gang life. Moreover, an important sign to watch for is your teen having any unexplained, large amount of money. Unexplained cash can be a clue that your teen is involved in some sort of illegal activity.
Tips for Parents
The first thing parents can do is have open communication with your teen and don't be afraid to ask questions. Your teen might react to you because you are asking private questions, but having them a little angry is likely better than the alternative. Besides, the fact that you asked may open the door for your child to ask for help, if needed.
Find a mentor within the community (i.e. big brother, big sister, church member or family friend) that can provide your teen with guidance and role model appropriate pro-social activities. This individual could have a past history of gang involvement; however, be open. Who is better to guide your teen on the right track than someone who has experience? These individuals will be able to identify behavior and attitude changes that you cannot. Your teen might also be more comfortable talking to them about issues than to you. You should not feel threatened by the relationship, but think of the mentor as a person who can help you understand your child. Plus, they might also serve as a confidant for you.
Seek professional help. There are many programs for at risk or gang affiliated youth, depending on the level of the involvement. Some parents seek the help of a trained mental health professional, while others might place their teen in a youth boot camp or wilderness survival experience (one that is not part of the juvenile justice system). Depending on the teen's needs and severity of involvement in gangs the choice is unique to your specific situation. Some teens need more individualized treatment like that provided in psychotherapy, while others need a more structured group experience.
Sources:
U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2008). Crime in the United States. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (2009). Children's Exposure to Violence: A Comprehensive National Survey. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (2008). Juvenile Arrests 2008. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
