Lecture 3: why are people attracted to violent groups?

Question 1

The need for safety

Answer 1

Can be a reason for people to join a violent group. Safety is one of our most basic needs. Joining a violent group can create the feeling of being protected and of superiority/reputation. It’s more a practical consideration than an actual choice, people need to join a group.

Question 2

Disorganisation theory

Answer 2

In communities where there is a cluster of social problems and no structural control form outside (dis organisation) (often in minority communities), gangs provide an alternative structure. They are often quite embedded in their communities. This causes minorities to be more involved in crime.

Question 3

Study about maltreatment and gang-membership

Answer 3

Maltreatment often causes people to:
- Develop more aggressive tendencies.
- Develop hostility bias: always thinking that people are showing hostile behaviour towards you.
- Feel chronically unsafe, which makes them attracted to gangs.

Question 4

Traditional masculinity

Answer 4

The biggest percentage of people in violent groups are men. This is why traditional masculinity is seen as an important reason for people to join gangs. Traditional masculinity emphasises values like:
- Self-reliance
- Self-control
- Complementarity of the masculine and feminine
- Heteronormativity
- Hegemony (higher value of men)
- Proving masculinity