They lack direction, and may initially find intrigue and camaraderie from the gang. Leaders and hard-core members are often very threatening and easy to identify. Marginal members, on the other hand, are very difficult for the average adult to detect because they do not exhibit the typical gang demeanor. Often these individuals are no more than sympathizers or wanna-bes who are not committed to the gang mentality. Many start into criminal activities and drugs, working into hard-core status and may even kill to become part of the gang or to prove themselves.
All street gangs utilize one or more visible indicators.
These identifiers are as varied as the imagination and ingenuity that the members have. Typically gang members use graffiti, hand signs, tattoos, and colors to signify their membership in a gang, and to communicate their gang affiliation to others. These serve not only to identify gang members, but also to promote group solidarity. The Chicago Police Department holds frequent workshops on gangs and gang awareness throughout the City. These workshops and discussions will help you learn how to recognize gang behavior in your children, how to cope, and how to fight back.