Adolescent Gang Membership and Differences in Ethnic Identity, Esteem, and Efficacy. Issue 12 (1st December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barbieri, Nina; Clipper, Stephen J.; Vasquez, Arthur G.
• Is Part Of: Deviant behavior. Volume 37:Issue 12(2016)
• Page Start: 1429
• Page End: 1442
• Publication Date: 2016-12-01
• Subjects: Deviant behavior -- Periodicals; 302.54205
• DOI: 10.1080/01639625.2016.1185870
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0163-9625

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Scholars have long recognized the impacts of gang membership on adolescents. While some have focused primarily on the negative effects, this seeks to understand the nuanced reasoning and results of joining a gang explicitly on the youth's perceptions of self-esteem, efficacy, and identity. Using the longitudinal assessment of the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program, propensity score matching was conducted on four attitudinal measures to determine whether positive outcomes were seen among adolescents reporting one-time gang involvement. Results indicate a positive effect on self-identity measures. Discussion of these findings illustrates the need for future research and policy implications.