Kids join for many reasons, and each case is individual. However reasons can include: excitement and fun, a sense of belonging, companionship, peer pressure, attention or status, financial gain, intimidation, protection, and failure to realize what being in a gang means. Living in a gang-infested area or having a family member in a gang increases the possibility of a kid joining one.
There are different reasons for different kids. • Some are drawn by parties, girls and drugs. • Some are looking for respect and power. • Some find a feeling of caring and attention in a gang. It becomes almost a family to them. • Some want to make money—to help out at home or to have nice clothes, etc. … • Some join for self-protection because they are picked on by other gang members. • Some grow up in a neighborhood where it is almost a way of life. • Most have some real or imagined problem at home that makes them prefer the streets. • Some gang members are addicted to drugs. The problems at home can become worse because parents don’t know how to cope with their addiction.
According to a White House fact sheet for the new youth initiative aimed at protecting America’s youth from gangs, an overwhelming number of violent U.S. criminals like those in gangs grow up in single-mother households with no father around. It’s also been shown that kids who are involved with their family, school and community are less likely to be involved in risky behavior like joining a gang. This may explain why, generally, kids join gangs to feel like they belong and have a sense of purpose.
Factors motivating kids to join gangs vary individual to individual. A multitude of social and economic reasons can be involved. Power, status, security, friendship, family substitute, economic profit, substance abuse influences, and numerous other factors can influence kids to join gangs. Gang members also cross all socio-economic backgrounds and boundaries regardless of age, sex, race, economic status, and academic achievement.