Article 1c: Understanding the Role of Violence and Conflict in the Stages of Gang Membership (Vecchio & Carson, 2022)

Question 1

Social learning theory

Answer 1

Explains how behaviours are learned and maintained through observation and reinforcement of other group members. In gang violence, this can be seen in rewards and punishments for violence as members progress through their stages of involvement in the gang.

Question 2

Role of violence in gangs

Answer 2

Violence is a central aspect of gang life, it’s not just means to an end, but a significant part of gang experience. It influences initiation to the gang (proving loyalty, seeking protection) and departure form the gang (due to negative consequences of the violence).

Question 3

Perception of protection

Answer 3

When gang members join a gang, they think that the gang will protest them. But after a while the reality of gang membership comes to light:
- Heightened risk due to gang involvement (police, law enforcement, rival gangs).
- Severe consequences (injuries, legal trouble, death of friends).
- Protection becomes a cycle of intimidation and harm to their own gang members.

Question 4

Reasons to join a gang

Answer 4

• Seeking protection, social status and financial gain.
• Experiencing elevated levels of fear and perceived risk before joining the gang.
• Peer pressure and desire to fit in.
• Immediate rewards of gang membership (money, respect, sense of power).

Question 5

Reasons to leave the gang (disengagement)

Answer 5

• Disillusionments: a feeling of dissapointment due to discovering gang-life is not as good as one believed it to be.
• Changing priorities: that come with maturing (safety, family).
• Access to support systems: family, community programs, rehabilitation.
• Supportive family environment and positive community.

Question 6

Enhancement effect of violent behaviour

Answer 6

Gang membership can enhance some behaviours, like violent and delinquent activities. This is because gangs provide a social environment where violence is encouraged and rewarded. They also learn violent behaviour through social learning and observation of other gang members. The gang enforces this behaviour trough rewards (status, money) and punishment (ostracism, beating). Over time, violence is seen as a ‘normal’ or necessary part of life.

Question 7

Gender differences

Answer 7

• Both males and females show increased levels of delinquency and substance abuse after gang involvement.
• For females, lack of school succes is a salient factor for gang involvement.

Question 8

Long-term effects of gang involvement

Answer 8

• Mental health (PTSD, depression, anxiety, SUD.
• Negative employment prospects
• Damaged relationships with family and friends
• Legal and financial troubles
• Dropping out of school
• Health risks