Studies have shown that ten to thirty eight percent of gang members are female (qtd. in Miller 431). Miller has recognized two different types of female gangs. First, the independent female gang. The independent female gang is completely separate of the male gang. The females make their own set of rules and have decision making powers. Miller's studies have shown that less than ten percent of female gangs are independent (qtd. in Chesney-Lind 46). Second, the auxiliary gang (qtd. in Curry 105). The auxiliary female gang is the most common and one in which the females are separate from the males in the gang, but are still apart of the whole gang. The males make all the decisions and essentially control the females. These type of female gang groups are, "an expression of the gender relations and boundaries of society" (qtd. in Laidler, Hunt 150). According to Lauderback, Hansen, and Waldorf independent female gangs show they have less interest in status and reputation, but more interest in making money in a "bleak environment with no legitimate opportunities and lack of support" (qtd. in Laidler, Hunt 150). Gang members tend to have identity problems, no self esteem, little confidence in their academic abilities, low feeling of purpose in their life and weak attachments to their own ethnic group. This proves there is a complete lack of social bonds throughout their life. Psychosocial theory by Hirschi states that internal control is the mechanism for explaining conformity and delinquency. Socialization is shown to help individuals develop a strong conscience and sense of morality that prevents delinquent behavior. Therefore, detachment from socialization breeds delinquent behavior. Youths growing up in the urban ghetto lack this socialization, because of growing up in a one parent or no parent household where family relationships are absent and there is a failure to attend school. Consequently, these delinquents turn to other delinquents for support (Dukes, Martinez, Stein 142-143).
