This study was designed to fill the need for empirically derived information to determine the most salient factors which differentiate street gang youths from youths in comparable neighborhoods who remain independent of the street gang. (Author)

Examined female delinquency and gang membership in 122 black female juveniles using data from the 1960s. Concluded that racism, sexism, poverty, and limited opportunity are more important predictors of delinquency than personality and family relationships. Relationships with girl friends were more significant predictors than heterosexual…