Gangs and Differential Association Theory
Abstract Gangs are feared around the United States and are something that attracts youth. People in gangs are not merely born violent individuals but learn the behavior to become violent gang members due to the structural environment that these individuals live in. This article discusses gangs, the location of gangs, and the structural environment. It also discusses how differential association theory relates to gangs and their activity. Furthermore, it discusses policies that are in place to prevent gang activity and how differential theory affects these policies. Gangs and Differential Theory In the United States, one cannot go a day without seeing something about gangs on TV. Sometimes it is something that one sees on the news. Other times it is a favorite show that glamorizes criminal activity. Either way, gangs have become part of the American culture today. Gangs are a brutal force that should not be reckoned with, and they are rightfully feared by many d...