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This version was published on January 1, 2008
Crime & Delinquency, Vol. 54, No. 1, 153-172 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/0011128706296664
© 2008 SAGE Publications

Understanding the Black Box of Gang Organization

Implications for Involvement in Violent Crime, Drug Sales, and Violent Victimization

Scott H. Decker

Arizona State University, Glendale, Scott.Decker{at}asu.edu

Charles M. Katz

Arizona State University, Glendale

Vincent J. Webb

Sam Houston State University, TX

This article examines the influence of gang organization on several behavioral measures. Using interview data from juvenile detention facilities in three Arizona sites, this article examines the relationship between gang organizational structure and involvement in violent crime, drug sales, victimization, and arrest. The gang literature suggests that gangs are not very well organized. However, the findings from the current research suggest that even low levels of gang organization are important for their influence on behavior. Indeed, even incremental increases in gang organization are related to increased involvement in offending and victimization.

Key Words: gangs • organizational structure • violence • drug sales • organization


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Home page
 Journal of Contemporary Criminal JusticeHome page
T. J. Taylor
The Boulevard Ain't Safe for Your Kids . . .1: Youth Gang Membership and Violent Victimization
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice, May 1, 2008; 24(2): 125 - 136.
[Abstract] [PDF]