Gangs and Gang Psychology: Written as an essay on "The Outsiders" by S.E. Hinton

Essay by the_weed_guyJunior High, 8th gradeA-, January 2003

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Gangs

The definition of "a gang" is a group of people organized for a common purpose, often criminal. There are many types of gangs in the world. Some from way back are not called gangs they are called Mafias, organized crime or even families of crime. Some gangs form out of necessity, the Greaser gang from "The Outsiders" for instance. This form of gang is usually very loyal, has little money, and not very organized. Another type of gang, which forms out of boredom, like the Soc gang from "The Outsiders", which usually has wealth, and aren't as loyal. They fight practically and with no emotion or feeling.

What types of organized gangs are there?

Most organized gangs revolve around one idea or common goal. Occultist gangs, also known as cults, are organized around a religion and worship this religion. Idealistic gangs revolve around an ideal. This Ideal may or may not be political.

And finally delinquent gangs. The importance of violence in delinquent gangs cannot be exaggerated. New members mistakenly called wannabes are very violent and are capable of anything. These members are capable of anything in order to prove their worth to the rest of the gang. There is a lot of thuggery in this type of gang.

How do I get in?

To get into most gangs you must first get them to trust you. Then you must befriend them. After that they should initiate you, by making you complete a task. The form of task that must be completed varies from gang to gang, but most tasks are illegal.

Who are you?

The relationship between the different members of the gang varies on a number of variables. Firstly what type of gang is it? How organized is it (organized gangs tend not to have a very...