Summary
This study provides an overview of various street gang-related issues and offers recommendations for addressing these gangs. It reviews the risk factors that predispose young people to join gangs, then outlines three main strategies to reduce or eliminate gangs from communities and correctional facilities: (1) prevention programs to discourage at-risk youth from joining a gang in the first place; (2) disengagement programs to encourage gang members to abandon the lifestyle of the gang, and; (3) suppression strategies that use the full force of the law to deter and contain gang activity. Where possible, the report indicates whether specific programs and strategies target youth or adults and whether they are community- or institutionally-based.
Contents
1. Introduction, terms and definitions -- 2. Gang prevention : a proactive approach -- 3. Disengagement strategies: leaving the gang -- 4. Suppression strategies: restraining gang activity -- 5. Corrections-based responses to gangs -- 6. Summary and recommendations.