Gang Control Model

As a professor who is an expert on gangs and delinquent behavior, and tasked with the responsibility of addressing a growing gang problem, I would seek to develop a gang control model based upon the most effective practices. Four options are available to control organized criminal activity: suppression, social programs and education, as well as the option of taking no action at all. These options will be used to develop responses to particular scenarios that are presented in light of the growing gang problem. A rationale for the chosen action plan will be given so as to support the suggested gang control model. Firstly, I would recommend the redevelopment of deteriorated neighborhoods in which gangs flourish. This action would be integral
As Siegel suggests, there are a number of different motives for youth gang participation which include various anthropological, sociological, psychological factors, in addition to varied reasons of personal choice (2015). The educational component of the gang control model would seek to address these factors so as to change the course of youth involvement in gang related activity by educating local jurisdictions on the various reasons why youth may be motivated to participate in gangs given the unique features of their community. Additionally, social programs focused on youth education might help individuals make more informed decisions regarding gang involvement by focusing their attention on the potential consequences of their
While state and local jurisdictions may not be completely able to eradicate gangs, they can take action to reduce their numbers. Consequently, the option of no action at all would not be a viable part of the gang control model. Rather, the gang control model would focus on achieving a balance between suppression, social programs and education in order to address the growing problem of gang activity. Siegel considers “suppression” and “social services” as the two primary methods of controlling gang activity (2015). While suppression tactics may include legal sentences or incarceration, they should also include ways to address the “pushes” and “pulls” of gang participation in the gang control model. These methods of suppression, combined with social services and education, can best mobilize local jurisdictions towards effective gang control. Thus, a balanced model of gang control can most effectively address the issue of gang