Describes the adaptation of social work practice skills to serve black urban youth gangs. Presents a model for practice which respects youths' right to self-determination and community needs. Model stages discussed include contact, rapport, setting goals, assigning roles, procuring resources, and evaluation. Model applicability is suggested. (NRB)

It has been the contention of researchers that the "old heads" (identified by Anderson in 1990 and Wilson in 1987) of the ghettos and barrios of America have voluntarily or involuntarily left the community, leaving behind new generations of youth without adult role models and legitimate social controllers. This absence of an adult strata…

This document draws on more than 50 years of gang program evaluations to summarize what has been learned about: (1) prevention programs, including early childhood, school-based, and afterschool initiatives; (2) intervention programs, including those that work to create violence-free zones, establish gang summits and truces, and rehabilitate gang…

This brief discusses the use of traffic barriers to block automobile access to streets as a way to reduce gang violence. The tactic was used in a crime-plagued area of Los Angeles, California, that had experienced a high level of drive-by shootings, gang homicides, and street assaults. The program, Operation Cul de Sac (OCDS), was evaluated as a…

Describes how one principal solved the problem of an invasion by 300 juvenile thugs'' at his quiet, suburban junior high school campus in Baltimore, Maryland. (EA)

Results of this study indicate that violent offenses are more likely committed by youths acting alone. Nonviolent offenses are more likely committed in groups. Of female delinquencies, 57 percent were committed in groups. (Author)

Using a phenomenological model, examines eight male adolescents' perceptions of their gang membership. Interviews revealed such themes as self-esteem, a sense of belonging, and protection. Outlines implications for school counselors when working with gang members individually, in groups, with families, or during school interventions. (RJM)

Positive individual and social behaviors were assessed among male gang members and males involved in community-based organizations aimed at promoting positive youth development. Correlations of attribute scores were more often significant for the gang than for the nongang youth. Approximately one-quarter of the gang youth had total positive…

Discusses how one college professor incorporated the voices of marginalized students into her course, "Race, Culture, and Class." Ex-gang member students were invited to participate in an ethnographic research project in which they interviewed gang members from their communities and shared findings with their more privileged classmates.…

Argues that communities can employ numerous measures to prevent gangs from controlling their neighborhoods. Causes and theoretical explanations of gang formation are discussed, as well as the impact of black gangs in African American communities, and public policy considerations. It is concluded that, with an entire community effort, gangs can be…

This qualitative research examined risk-taking behavior among Mexican American adolescent girls who are not formal gang members but are associated with male gangs. Findings illustrate how outcomes associated with sexual relations, partying, substance use, and crime vary according to the girl's relationship with the male gang and status within the…

Presents interview with 14-year-old gang member and student classified as Severe Behavior Handicapped the day before he was to appear in court. Student explains how he became gang member, feelings toward rival gangs, selling drugs, the trouble he had gotten into, and his feelings about gangs in general. (NB)

The ravages of illegal drugs and gangs are growing discernibly worse in many American cities. Schools and school boards are going to have to sustain hope by finding the courage to oppose youth violence, gang terrorism, and drug trafficking and consumption. (MLF)

Narrates a young inmate's story of prison life. Describes how he was imprisoned at age 13 and was soon transferred to an adult prison. Discusses feelings of isolation and the brutal life of prisoners. Presents ideas on why youth join gangs and the importance of a warm, family environment. (RJM)

Examined the influence of gang membership on rates of participation in sexual activity, substance use, and violence among African American adolescent girls. Found that gang members had higher participation rates in all three risk behaviors. (JPB)