"Why Are Gangs So Difficult to Define and Classify

There are several features that make the definition and classification of gangs difficult. First, it is difficult to define and classify gangs because gangs are not a cohesive group. This means that the organization is weak and loosely structured with no set of rules, hierarchy structure nor does the organization have the traditional organizational characteristics such as group name, group leaders, and more (Howell, 2003).  Generally, gangs have a fluctuating structure such that members change their level of involving where some consider themselves as ‘original gangster', ‘hardcore', ‘core', ‘associate' and more.  The second reason as to why it is difficult to define gangs is because gangs change over time.  In other words, gangs pass through three stages namely; vertical structure, horizontal structure, and familial structure. The first means that gang members are of the same age group and they are united in fighting the rival gangs. The second stage means that members became criminally active and engaged in criminal activities such as armed robberies and drug dealing.  The third stage means that members establish interpersonal relations although social activities are less due to arrests and incarcerations of the members (Howell, 2003).  Third, it is difficult to define gangs because of the ‘hybrid hangs'. Today, gang members are ethnically mixed, have diverse cultures, unclear rules among other diverse characteristics that make it difficult to classify them (Howell, 2003).

Ways to improve the definition and classification of gangs.

 The broad definition and classification of gangs may cause gigantic problems. Thus, gangs should be narrowly defined in order to evaluate the gang problem and offer solutions. In other words, the police departments, city leaders, politicians, researchers, schools, and parents should have a uniform definition to avoid confusion and solve community issues (Spergel, 1995).  Even though gangs are distinct groups, we can use the following criteria for defining and classify gangs. First, people should define gangs as a group of criminals who are responsible for creating a defective society. Second, differentiate between the gang and delinquent groups and third,   define gangs on the basis of the pattern of criminal behaviors, gang structure, and participant characteristics (Spergel, 1995)..

 

The role of the organization in reducing the misuse of drugs

 The organization reduces the misuse of drugs by providing preventive education. The professionals use evidence-based research and evidence-informed resources in educating people about the substance and prevention (Leigey & Bachman, 2007). The professionals employ an interactive method to help them increase awareness and gain a valuable experience.  Second, the organization reduces the misuse of the drug through collaboration. This means that the professionals collaborate with the community and local and law enforcement where they develop common goals. The professionals also enter in the community to educate the adults such as parents, teachers, healthcare professionals and others about the drug misuse and prevention (Leigey & Bachman, 2007). The purpose of this is to help them communicate with the youth people, monitor and support them to reduce access to the drug.

 

 Using the administrative power in reducing the supply of illegal drugs.

            As the high-ranking official, I would use my administrative power to reduce demand and supply of the drugs.  First, I would focus on supply reduction to increase the costs of drugs, disrupt drug manufacturing and weaken the drug economy (Leigey & Bachman, 2007).  In other words, I would create a supply-reduction policy and coordinate with the drug law enforcement in implementing interventions such as crop replacement and the regulatory boundary to the legitimate users.  The supply reduction policy will reinforce the demand reduction policy where the latter will aim at developing supportive environments, forging a partnership among governments, health professionals, community organizations, and parents (Leigey & Bachman, 2007).  It will also prevent drug use and adverse consequences and improve economic conditions in the community.

 

 

 

 

References 

 

Howell, J. C. (2003). Preventing & reducing juvenile delinquency: A comprehensive framework. Thousand

, Calif: Sage Publications.

 

Spergel A. Irving. (1995). The Youth Gang Problem: A Community Approach. Oxford University Press.

 

 Leigey, M. E., & Bachman, R. (2007). The influence of crack cocaine on the likelihood of incarceration for

a violent offense: An examination of a prison sample. Criminal Justice Policy Review, 18(4), 335-

352.