Levels of Gang Involvement

It is important to be able to determine the extent to which an individual is (or is not) involved in a gang. This is basic framework for your reference, but details will vary from gang to gang.

Level I - Fantasy

Knows about gangs primarily from newspaper, newscasts, and the movies.
May or may not know about “real” gangs.
May or may not know one or more gang member but does not associate.
May or may not like, respect, or admire a gang, a gang member, or the gang lifestyle.
Sees gang members as “living out a fantasy”.

Level II - At Risk

Knows about gangs and gang members, first hand.
Casually and occasionally associates with gang members.
Lives in or near gang areas (turf).
May like or admire gangs or gang members as individuals.
May like and/or admire the gang lifestyle but not participate fully.

Level III - Wannabe, Associate

Knows and likes gang members, first hand.
Regularly associates with gang members.
Considers gangs and related activity as normal, acceptable or admirable.
Finds many things in common with gang members
Is seriously thinking about joining a gang.

Level IV - Gang Member

Is officially a gang member.
Associates almost exclusively with gang members to the exclusion of family and former friends.
Participates in gang crimes ad most other related activities.
Is not considered hard core by fellow gang members or others.
Has substantially rejected the authority or value system of family and society.

Level V - Hard-core gang member

Totally committed to the gang and gang lifestyle.
Totally rejects anyone or any value system, other than the gang.
Is considered hard core by self, other gang members and authorities.
Will commit any act with the approval of a demand from the gang.
Does not accept any authority other than the gang.

 

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