Gang

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Gang is a term used to describe a group of individuals who share a common identity and engage in illegal activities. The term is often associated with street gangs, which form on the streets of cities. However, gangs can also form in schools, prisons, and online communities.

Definition[edit | edit source]

A gang is defined as a group of three or more individuals who share a common identity and engage in illegal activities. This identity can be based on a variety of factors, including race, ethnicity, region, or criminal activity. Gangs are typically characterized by their use of violence to achieve their goals, which can include control of territory, increased power, or financial gain.

Types of Gangs[edit | edit source]

There are several different types of gangs, including:

  • Street Gangs - These are the most common type of gang and are often associated with inner-city areas. Street gangs are typically involved in a variety of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, robbery, and violence.
  • Prison Gangs - These gangs form within the prison system and are often involved in illegal activities both inside and outside of prison.
  • School Gangs - These gangs form within schools and are often involved in activities such as bullying, drug dealing, and violence.
  • Online Gangs - These gangs form online and are often involved in activities such as cybercrime, identity theft, and online harassment.

Gang Activities[edit | edit source]

Gang activities can vary widely depending on the type of gang and its goals. However, common activities include:

  • Drug Trafficking - Many gangs are involved in the illegal drug trade, either by selling drugs themselves or by providing protection for drug dealers.
  • Violence - Violence is often used by gangs to establish control over territory, to intimidate rivals, or to enforce loyalty among members.
  • Robbery - Gangs often engage in robbery as a means of generating income.

Prevention and Intervention[edit | edit source]

There are a variety of strategies that can be used to prevent and intervene in gang activity, including:

  • Community Policing - This involves building relationships between police and community members to help prevent crime.
  • Education Programs - These programs aim to provide young people with the skills and opportunities they need to avoid joining a gang.
  • Family Support Services - These services aim to strengthen families and provide support to parents in order to prevent youth from joining gangs.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Gang Resources
Wikipedia
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD