Gangs and Economics

Can we make a change?

Is it the case that The existence of Gangs is purely a case of Economics? Lets discuss, and look at solutions.

Gangs are not found in wealthy or middle class areas, and any middle class youths joining Gangs are usually travelling to poorer areas to gain some street cred or are mixing with the wrong crowd at school.

Gangs can be of any race or culture. It's simply of a bonding of a group of people with their own rules and customs. There are white gangs, black gangs, Hispanic gangs, Asian gangs, Chinese gangs - the triads and most famous of all are the Italian gangs - the mafia.

Glasgow inner city, 98% white population, has been plagued with gangs for many decades. Situations there have been worse than London. Gangs therefore should not be thought of as a colour thing, or even an ethnic phenomena.

Youths join a gang for many reasons. For some it's a fashion. They are in an area where gang life is popular, and they are following what others are doing. They do not want to miss out. There always seems to be excitement with a gang, and something to do, so why not.

For some when considering joining a gang, the attraction is feeling part of a family. Perhaps they are not close to their own Mother or father and feel that they get more "love" from the gang. It's nice when a group of people are always looking out for you, want to know your every move, and theoretically have your interests at heart.

Gang membership sometimes allows easy access to the opposite sex. The youth can get experience with sex, which they are less likely to get on their own. Boys might feel the girls are more likely to want them if they are in a gang. Gang leaders especially feel they have first options on the best girls. Girls may like the excitement, and frequently land in situations they did not anticipate. The dangers are many, but will not be listed here. The pull of gangs and sex can be stronger than any family or youth worker. It takes a tragedy or a significant mentor to assist the young person to desire a better life, and really want to change.

For many gang members, joining a gang is about making money. They have an urgent desire to make money, and this seems like an easy option. Acquire some drugs, sell, and get the profits. Typically those involved have a poor background, in that are getting very little or no money whether from parents or anywhere else. They see others with new trainers, and clothes, and want these things quickly. They ignore the risks and go for the easy option. However many are earning a pittance. Only the people at the top are earning the real money which is typical of any network marketing or MLM structure, which essentially is what this is on the streets.

Fights which result in knife wounds or gunshots are usually the result of an argument which has got out of hand. There used to be a time when fisticuffs were the order of the day. Now, the harder youth will carry a weapon - just in case. They can then get a quick edge in a fight. Anger management is not a strong feature, especially when the antagonists are stoked with drink or drugs. People for instance who are stoned or drunk lose their sense of perspective and are more likely cause grievous bodily harm, or murder.

So if not Gangs - then what?

We would like to suggest that the business acumen which many of these gang leaders clearly have can be channelled into legitimate businesses. If they are so good at selling, why does it have to be drugs. Why not find another commodity that people always want. Buy it cheap, then put a profit on it. Latent talents can be resurrected.

Business options could include selling, services such as DJ, sound recording, video production, marketing, graphic design or products such as magazine, TShirts, customised clothing, websites, artwork, events, food, drinks.

Further Education and a degree is required for the following professions. Colleges are able to take any person who wants to study. Lawyer, Doctor, Teacher, Paramedic, Accountant, Bank Trader,

There are 50,000 apprentice positions advertised on apprentice.org.uk
So youths can learn a trade which could become lucrative later on. They get trained for free. Later on that course would have cost thousands. Chef, Plumber, Electrician, Decorator, Builder, Mechanic.

The jobcentre plus will have over 100,000 jobs in one area.

There are choices. If gang warfare is so bad in your area, its impossible to stay away from them, then it is seriously time to move. Ask parents if they have someone living in a different area they could stay with. Find a way out. Your life might depend on it. Its not good to wait until you get a criminal record either. That will put a block on certain jobs you may want to do later. So many jobs require CRB checks now.

The government will assist while you try to study - with student loans.
The government will assist while you are unemployed, and want to start a business. Try the Princes Trust.

There is so much help out there now. Talk to people at the jobcentre plus. Find a mentor from a local church or youth club. Talk to an older relative who can help you make connections. Mix with people who are positive and are going somewhere in their lives. Its bound to rub off on you.

Black Economics
April 2012

For further help or signposting email us
Or call Gangsline on 0800 032 9538, on 07985 717 909

FB Page

Join our Mailing List to the
Black Economics website