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Abstract
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Background and Goals: The current study investigated the relationship
between gang involvement and multiple mental health difficulties; anxiety,
depression, paranoia, victim trauma and perpetrator trauma. Additionally, it
examined the mediating influence of an individual's exposure to violence within
this relationship.
Method: One hundred adolescents aged 11-16 years old completed two
questionnaires and an interview which investigated their friendship groups,
exposure to violence and mental well-being. Eighteen participants were identified
as current or ex-gang members and the other eighty-two were classified as the nongang
comparison group.
Results: Findings show that gang members displayed more symptoms of depression
and perpetrator trauma compared to non-gang members. The relationship between
gang involvement and these mental health difficulties was mediated by exposure to
violence.
Conclusion: Discussion focuses on the need for researchers, practitioners and
policymakers to acknowledge the relationship between gang involvement and
mental health difficulties and implement additional strategies to support young
people currently or previously involved in gangs.
Language: en |