Children who develop friendships with antisocial peers in elementary school are at higher risk for violent behavior. …show more content…
Youth who are more vulnerable to the lure of gangs may feel disenfranchised or threatened, have poor school connection, have troubled family relationships, have siblings or friends who are in gangs, or be looking for fun and excitement. These youth typically join gangs to feel accepted, attain status, and increase their self-esteem. Once a member of a gang, youth are more likely to be involved in criminal activities; have academic difficulties; drop out of school; be suspended, expelled, or arrested; and become victims of violence. Membership in a gang increases the risk of violent behavior above and beyond the risk of having delinquent or antisocial peers. Unlike individual troubled students and sporadic fights, gangs are organized, predatory, and usually directed by older youth or adults outside of school. Most seek to expand their power and wealth through illegal activities, intimidation, and recruitment. Frequently, more than one gang is involved, operating either within or between schools and in the