Gang Basics
What is a gang?
A group of people with a shared identity that may engage in criminal activity.
Where can gangs recruit youths today?
Schools, neighbourhoods, online, social media, parties, and through friends.
What is one primary goal of many adult criminal gangs?
Financial gain through criminal activity.
What is the most common age range for youth gang recruitment?
Early to mid-teens (often between 12 and 17 years old).
Name some community programs that helps to prevent youth crime.
Sports, mentoring, after-school programs, youth centres, or cultural programs.
Do all groups of friends qualify as gangs?
No. Most groups of friends are not gangs.
What is one common promise gangs make to attract youths?
Money, protection, respect, friendship, or belonging.
Name some crimes commonly associated with gangs.
Drug trafficking, firearms offences, extortion, robbery, fraud, money laundering, or human trafficking.
Name some factors that may increase a youth risk of joining a gang.
Peer pressure, family conflict, trauma, poverty, lack of supervision, school disengagement, or substance use.
Why are positive adult role models important?
They provide guidance, support and positive examples.
True or False: Wearing one specific colour proves someone belongs to a gang.
False
What technology has become an important recruitment tool?
Social media and messaging apps.
Why do adult gangs recruit younger members?
To expand their influence, recruit new members, and carry out criminal activities.
Why do gangs often recruit young people?
Youth may be easier to influence, seek belonging, and may be used to commit crimes on behalf of older members.
How can families support gang prevention at home?
Maintain open, nonjudgmental communication with your child
Set clear expectations and consistent rules
Know your child’s friends and daily activities
Encourage involvement in school, sports, clubs, or arts
Build a strong family routine and quality time
Connect with local resources for tutoring, counseling, or mentoring
Name two reasons youth's may join gangs.
Belonging, protection, money, status, peer pressure, or family influence.
Why are vulnerable youths often targeted?
They may be looking for acceptance, protection, or support.
Besides violence, what is another way gangs control people?
Intimidation, fear, threats, debt, or manipulation.
Name some protective factors that reduce the risk of gang involvement.
Strong family support, positive mentors, education, sports, employment, cultural activities, or positive friendships.
How can schools help to prevent gang involvement?
By identifying at-risk youths by providing support, and partnering with families and the police.
What is one difference between a youth gang and organized crime?
Youth gangs are often less structured, while organized crime groups are typically more organized and profit-driven.
Name some ways communities can reduce gang recruitment.
Mentorship, youth programs, education, employment opportunities, family support, and community partnerships.
What makes organized crime groups different from many street gangs?
Organized crime groups are usually more structured, hierarchical, and focused on long-term criminal profit.
True or False: Gang members can come from any socioeconomic background.
True
What is community policing?
Police working with the community to solve problems and improve safety.