They began to join gangs because of feelings of persecution, which are still existent today. .
Studies show that poverty stricken kids are very likely to join gangs for financial support, as they lack skills necessary to become gainfully employed in mainstream society. So they turn to a gang for an income. Those who do join for income often do so because jobs are not accessible to them anywhere else. Not all poverty stricken children join gangs for money. For some, gang membership is a matter of survival in their rough neighbourhoods. Others are looking for a strong support system, which neither their family nor community provides. There is also a myth about gangs that states only poor people join. This is entirely false. Many middle class teens and kids are beginning to join gangs for the look. "Growing out of the "grunge" look and with the adulation of the hip-hop culture with its "attitude," baggies and shaved heads, or gang attire, has become popular nation-wide among teens including upper and middle-class white adolescents as well." Another myth about gangs is that there are only male members. This is also false. Although gangs are male dominated there are woman in gangs. But the males tend to not allow females too much power within gangs. One gang member was quoted as saying "Sometimes a girl is in a car when something goes down, but it wasn't supposed to be like that. Somebody just happens to be there sometimes. Usually--well, I personally don't want them around. Speaking for myself, when I have to, like it's business you know? It's not party time." .
Why are there so many teens and even pre-teens turning to the life of gangs and violence? There are many reasons and explanations for the popularization of gang culture. In large inner cities, life may seem tough and rough for a teen, so they begin to look for help in all the wrong places. Gangs say they have a lot to offer a teen. They can offer one protection, money, friendships and anything that one needs.
