Characteristics of Gang Membership and Victimization

Date

2011

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Crime Victims' Institute at Sam Houston State University

Abstract

The current study aimed to provide a backdrop to the emerging gang-victimization literature by examining: 1) characteristics of victimization for gang and non-gang members, 2) descriptors of gang membership comparing victimized to non-victimized gang members, and 3) characteristics of gang membership comparing victimized to non-victimized gang members. A sample of both gang and non-gang member prison inmates were interviewed and answered a series of questions regarding involvement in crime and experiences with victimization. Gang members answered further questions pertaining to gang membership and gang member conduct. Results indicate that gang members were significantly more likely to be victimized compared to non-gang members and gang members were more likely to be alone and under the influence of substances when victimized. Characteristics of membership and gang member conduct by victimization status are also presented. See also Crime Victimization and Gang Membership (2011). (Author Text)

Description

Report

Keywords

Interview Results, Gang Crime, Victim-Offender Overlap, Incarcerated, Gang Violence, Risk Factors, High-risk Behavior, Drug-related Victimization, Drug Facilitated, Criminal History, Theft, Non-fatal Shooting, Perpetrators, Male Victims, Assault

Citation

Rufino, Katrina; Fox, Kathleen; Kercher, Glen. (2011). Characteristics of Gang Membership and Victimization. Crime Victims' Institute at Sam Houston State University, 19 pgs.

DOI