Risk and protective factors associated with gang affiliation among high-risk youth: a public health approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Gang violence accounted for 20% of homicides in large cities from 2002 to 2006. Preventing gang affiliation (ie, youth who either desire or have gang membership) might reduce subsequent gang activity. Previous research has focused on identifying risk factors for gang affiliation; however, little information is available on protective factors.

Aim

To identify risk and protective factors to provide more direction for gang violence prevention strategies.

Methods

The author analysed cross-sectional survey data from 4131 youths in grades 7, 9, 11 and 12. Data were collected in 2004 from students in a high-risk, urban public school district. Regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between gang affiliation and alcohol and drug use, delinquency

SUBMITTER: McDaniel DD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3406611 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature