Rather, leadership roles in street gangs are usually not formally recognized positions. A member who demonstrates or asserts dominant control at a particular time assumes leadership roles. However, with smaller gangs, it is more likely that a single individual will become a recognized leader. Many gangs are subdivided into sets or cliques. A clique or set will usually have its own name.
Sets usually apply to Black gangs, and cliques to Hispanic gangs.
In Monterey County, we have a limited number of sets and cliques. Most of our sets and cliques are identified as specific gangs when in actuality they are younger versions of older street gangs. In many cases, young people are not actively discouraged from gang activity by their parents. In fact, more than not, parents don't realize their children are engaged in gang activity and assume it's always someone else's child. Membership Gang members represent all economic and social strata.