Title: Perspectives on Gangs and Gang Violence – Nonprofit Risk Management Center
Headings: Perspectives on Gangs and Gang Violence
Perspectives on Gangs and Gang Violence
Use of Weapons
Risk Management Considerations for Controlling Gang Influence

Content: Enhanced status or prestige among friends. Increased income from drug sales and other criminal enterprises. Protection from other gangs. Social relationships giving a sense of personal identity. Coercion into joining. Researchers into gang activities recommend that youth-serving organizations be alert to signs that indicate possible gang activity. According to Ronald D. Stephens, Executive Director of the National School Safety Center at Pepperdine University, the signs include: Graffiti — Gangs use graffiti to mark their territory. When another gang disputes territory they often cross out the rival gang’s graffiti and replace it with their own. Colors, jewelry and distinctive clothing — Gangs generally establish distinctive clothing to signify affiliation with a particular gang.