DRUGS ANS SOCIETY

Analyzing different approaches to Gangs



Analyzing different approaches to Gangs

Gangs have emerged as a major problem in U.S. There are an estimated 3500 gang members and 35 outlaw groups in U.S. There is diversity amongst gangs. They vary according to ethnic composition, criminal activities and stability. Gangs evolve due to external pressure, intervention and indirect factors like population change and economic conditions. Some communities deny the existence of gangs while others have cracked down on them harshly. (Spergel, 2007) Gangs perpetrate crimes such as murder, prostitution, gambling, extortion, arson, theft, etc.

Gang violence is an attack on individuals and communities. It breeds an environment of fear. It prevents elderly, women and children from moving safely. New laws and tougher penalties are the first step towards reducing gang violence. At the same successful community based programs should be initiated which help students from marginalised sections of society. Proper social programs can successfully prevent students from joining gangs. Another important step to solving the problem of gangs is to increase safety for witnesses. (Spergel, 2007)

Gangs are a problem in local and urban areas. A combination of federal, state and community based strategies is the best way to tackle gangs. Youth must be prevented from joining gangs. Existing gangs must be transformed into social clubs and conflicts should be resolved between gangs. This strategy has been successfully applied in different parts of the world. Studies have shown the success of school curriculums combined with recreational programs. This approach has been demonstrated to be successful in crushing gangs. Development of recreation programs like sports and music can also help in preventing students from joining gangs. Enlisting former gang members can also be effective in reducing violence and mediating in conflicts. On the state level gangs can be crushed if tough penalties are imposed. ...