Gang Violence in Pacoima, CA
Gang Violence in Pacoima, CA
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Issue Date
2005
Authors
Thomas, Shereen
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Abstract
Gang violence has been present in southern California for many years. Modern day gangs often involve themselves in activities such as the use of drugs, petty theft, and the possession of weapons. Most of their conflict involves other gangs and although it does occur, the occurrence of gang violence outside the parameters of other local gangs carries a smaller percentage in comparison. This paper looks at the gang activity occurring in Pacoima, California and offers an explanation as to why the young members of this community join gangs in the area and what makes them commit crime by conducting a survey among some of the gang members of the community. “The study also gives an inside perspective of what the background of these youths is and what they are surrounded by. It considers the psychological as well as environmental factors that play a role in the upbringing of these youths; it reaffirms that both factors influence the choices these youths make and finds that the problem is a complex structure that involves different avenues of cause. The results of this study will illustrate how the collective (social, psychological, environmental and economical) backgrounds of the individual gang members should be considered when attempting to understand what drives these youths to be a part of that lifestyle. This paper does not offer a solution to gang violence, but rather helps define what goes on behind the actions of gang members and what makes them join the gang and commit violent crimes.