Street gangs can be described as a group of people who form an allegiance for a common purpose and engage in violent, unlawful or criminal activity. Leadership roles in street gangs are usually not formally recognized positions. They are assumed by a member who demonstrates dominant control at a given time. Gangs are usually comprised of males ranging from 13 to 28 years of age.
Members represent all racial and ethnic groups and are predominantly from the lowest income levels.
However, we're beginning to see gangs moving into middle class neighborhoods, and in some cases, form integrated gangs. There are a variety of reasons, including the excitement of gang activity, peer pressure, attention, media interest, financial benefit and lack of realization of the hazards involved. In many cases, young people are not actively discouraged from gang involvement by their parents. Often, parents do not realize that their children are engaged in gang activity. It is not practical to examine everything a gang does.