Children and Gangs Essay - 716 Words

The problem of gangs is growing, and not only in major city centers. The Justice Department says there are now 30,000 gangs with more than 800,000 members. The National Youth Gang Centre (NYGC), which conducts an annual survey that is funded by the Justice Department, concedes that every town of 250,000 people now has a gang problem. Many young adults who join gangs may do it for the following reasons: - Gangs may offer kids a powerful group identity and a kind of recognition they cannot get at home or elsewhere. - Protection - If there are many gangs in an area, joining one of them may offer protection from rival gangs. - Feeling of Belonging - Gang activity may offer a feeling of being a part of a quot;familyquot; that is†¦show more content†¦Parents need to help their children develop self-esteem to try and give them the courage to avoid joining a gang. - Support your childs goals and ideas, even if they differ from your own. - Encourage your child to make independent choices. - Give your child a chance to contribute to the family. Assign chores or jobs that your child is old enough to do. - Focus on your childs good points. Praise positive behavior. - Let your child know you expect good efforts and hard work in everything. - Teach your child that trying hard counts. Praise your childs efforts as well as achievements. - Set reasonable limits and follow through on them. That way, your child learns to handle limits. - Ask for your childs opinions and decisions on family matters. - Express your feelings and encourage your child to do the same. Try not to judge or criticize your childs feelings. - Make it clear that you love your child as he or she is. Be Involved In Your Childs Life - Show interest in your childs schoolwork, hobbies, and friends. - Work to build open, ongoing communication with your child. - Listen without being quick to judge. - Set aside time for positive family activities. - Monitor what your child watches and listens to, especiallyShow MoreRelatedEssay about Children and Gangs1455 Words   |  6 PagesChildren and Gangs      Ã‚  Ã‚   Gang violence is a huge problem in America today. More and more children are joining gangs every day. It has become evident that these gangs made up of young people are causing numerous problems. 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