Collective and normative features of gang violence

Abstract

Gang members engage in a considerable amount of violence. Based on a three-year field study of active gang members in St. Louis, this paper examines five activities in which gang members use violence. Retaliatory gang violence is highlighted for its role in generating additional violence and contributing to the growth of gangs. We pay particular attention to the normative aspects of gang violence. In addition, gang violence is interpreted from the perspective of collective behavior.