Researchers frequently use 5 criteria to define a gang: (1) formal organization structure, (2) identifiable leadership, (3) identified with a territory, (4) recurrent interaction and (5) engaging in serious or violent behavior. Pirates were probably the first types of gang in history. To define a gang is a difficult task, but I will give you an idea of what a gang actually is. A gang is a loosely organized peer group of persons in a lower-, middle-, or upper class community who participate in activities that are either harmful to themselves and/or others in society. They share a common name, symbols and colors. Former gangs came together for social reasons. But modern-day gangs meet for anti-social reasons.
             Gangs tend to form among groups of immigrants to keep their ethnic identity. African-American gangs are believed to confine activities in their own communities. Asian gangs primarily consisted of Cambodian, Vietnamese and Korean youth; go as far away from home as possible to conduct their activities. Anglo gangs are for the most part made up of white supremacists. Researchers have concluded that gangs are consisted of a little more than 90% males.
             The main reason why gangs are attractive is because they respond to an individuals need for attention and love. They give youth a sense of family and acceptance by others. Alienated youths feel helpless and need a support system. This leads to frustration and anger, so they look for the support some place other than home and school. In gangs, they find a type of support and attention they may have never found with their families. Membership allows youth to find their true identity.
             Feelings of fear, hatred, bigotry, poverty, disenfranchisement, and the breakdown of social values are considered motivations for joining a gang. For many it's a history of abuse in the home setting. They are not given the background needed to understand the value of human life. Peo...