children s health issues
Violent Behavior in Children and Adolescents
Gang involvement
Participation in Violence and Gang Membership has been linked with violent behavior, often involving firearms. Gang members are typically ages 13 to 24. Gangs usually adopt a name and identifying symbols, such as a particular style of clothing, the use of certain hand signs, tattoos, or graffiti. Some gangs require prospective members to perform random acts of violence before membership is granted. Increasing youth gang violence has been blamed at least in part on gang involvement in drug distribution and drug use, particularly methamphetamines and heroin. 