Problem and Response

ABSTRACT

This draft report represents the result of an extensive review of the research literature available on the youth-gang phenomenon conducted by a team of researchers at the University of Chicago, headed by Irving Spergel and sponsored by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), u. S. Department of Justice. The report explores the research on such topics as definitions of youth gang and related terms, the nature and causes of the gang phenomenon, and the effectiveness of various respons'es from law enforcement, the judicial system, social welfare agencies, schools, and communities. It concludes with a summary and conclusions regarding the nature of the problem, the responses offering the most hope, and the possible courses for further research. An extensive bibliography is also provided. with bibliography, the report numbers 301 pages.

INTRODUCTION

Youth gangs are not unique to contemporary urban America. They have existed across time and cultures. Youth gangs tend to develop during times of rapid social change and political instability.