Behaviors Associated With Gangs

As a parent, you should watch for changes in your child’s behavior. The following behaviors are common in gang involved youth, but could also indicate other concerning activities. If you notice the following changes in your child, talk to them, and seek help if necessary.

Negative changes in behavior such as:

  • Withdrawing from family.
  • Declining school attendance, performance or behavior.
  • Staying out late without reason.
  • Unusual desire for secrecy.
  • Confrontational behavior, such as talking back, verbal abuse, name calling, and disrespect for parental authority.
  • Sudden negative opinions about law enforcement or adults in position of authority (school officials or teachers).
  • Change in attitude about school, church, or other normal activities- or change in behavior at these activities.

Other changes such as:

  • Unusual interest in one or two particular colors of clothing or a particular logo.
  • Interest in gang-influence music, videos, and movies.
  • Use and practice of hand signals to communicate with friends.
  • Peculiar drawings or gang symbols on schoolbooks, clothing, notebooks, or even walls.
  • Drastic changes in hair or dress style and/or having a group of friends who have the same hair or dress style.
  • Withdrawal from longtime friends and forming bonds with an entirely new group of friends.
  • Suspected drug use, such as alcohol, inhalants, and narcotics.
  • The presence of firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.
  • Nonaccidental physical injuries, such as being beaten or injuries to hands and knuckles from fighting.
  • Unexplained cash or goods, such as clothing or jewelry.

Information from: Parents’ Guide to Gangs Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

Why do Kids Join Gangs?

Behaviors Associated with Gangs

What Parents Can Do