Why People Join Gangs

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There are many reasons people, especially young people, join criminal gangs. The number one reason is the longing for a family or to fit in; to belong! Another big reason is to obtain money, power, prestige and respect. Lack of jobs/money compounded with social isolation will often times lead young men and women into gang involvement. Many seek out gangs as a means of protection, either from individuals or rival gangs. It's also been shown that lack of parental involvement and early academic failure can also result in seeking out the camaraderie of a criminal gang. Oftentimes, boredom can result in joining as can the excitement of belonging to a gang. In many cases, young men and women feel like they have no choice but to join because

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