What is a common characteristic of gang members?

A common characteristic of gang members is experience with violence. Gang culture often normalizes and glorifies violent behavior as part of its identity and operation. Members may engage in violence for various reasons, including territorial disputes, criminal activities, and intimidation. The involvement in violent acts can be a means of gaining respect or status within the gang and the surrounding community.

While strong family ties, high academic achievement, and stable employment may exist among some individuals, they are generally not characteristics associated with gang members as a collective group. Instead, gang members are frequently found in situations where socioeconomic pressures may limit opportunities for education and stable jobs, thereby increasing their involvement in gangs as a means of survival and belonging.