Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter you should be able to

1. Describe how gangs developed in the United States
2. Define the term gang, and describe today’s gang activities
3. Explain what an urban street gang is, and give examples of types of gangs
4. Show how race and ethnicity relate to gang involvement and gang activity
5. Describe some of the illegal activities that gangs engage in
6. Provide an overview of gangs in schools
7. Describe gang prevention efforts
8. Describe problems involved in leaving a gang