Girls and Gangs

We all are aware of the presence of gangs in our public schools, but what is the culture of these gangs and why are young people tempted to join them--especially female students? There seems to be a cluster of factors that are as complicated as the list is long, but I want to focus on the emotional needs of girls and how this may lead to them joining a gang.

When teachers and adults alike think of gang, perhaps--if we are honest--the first thing that comes to mind is a group of young, virile African American or non-white Hispanic males, driving in old model cars, and wearing clothing that showcases their many tattoos. But what of girls? According the to chapter, girl gangs cause just as much social harm as their male counterparts. They can be violent, skip school and spend time in jail just like the males. They are also more prone to join gangs if they are from working class or lower income families, do not have a strong support system either in their communities, homes and schools. Peer pressure also plays a role and I am inclined to believe that just like males, female gang members join because they want protection from a rival more dangerous than themselves.

I think teacher should recognize the signs that are present when girls join gangs and they are a drop in grades and school attendance, hanging with the wrong crowds and becoming increasingly confrontational. It must be very scary to feel the need to join a group of people who engage in illegal activity just to feel a sense of belonging.

Teachers need to encourage these girls to become involved with community outreach programs and perhaps ally with their parents in helping the student get counseling.