Citation

Gilbertson DL. J. Gang Res. 2009; 16(2): 1-25.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, National Gang Crime Research Center)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examined definitions of social problems and gangs, and sought to determine whether they lead to the conclusion that gangs are a social problem. Findings suggest that gangs are perceived by the general public, and by local and Federal agencies, as a problem worthy of attention. There is a strong correlation between gang membership and criminality supported by empirical research. The study's hypothesis is that gangs can be defined as a social problem. Using the Socratic method, several questions are posed and examined: what is a social problem; how are definitions developed; are definitions always right; what is a gang; what are gang-related activities; what is a criminal gang; and how are gangs perceived? The results, and answers to the questions, demonstrated that gangs are a social problem, a private issue that has risen to the level of a public issue based on perceptions (public opinion/collective definition) of its harmfulness to society.