fsneed4378 asked this question on 4/3/2000:

why do gangs exist?

d_ottr gave this response on 4/4/2000:

Gangs exist to fulfill some needs people feel are lacking in their lives.

First is belonging. Usually the typical gang member is either an outcast of the community, or sometimes someone alienated from or by his/her family. They join a gang to achieve togetherness, and they find comfort in this group.

Second is financial. There is money to be made in the gang, usually through sales of illegal drugs, but sometimes through auto theft, extortion, prostitution, arson, or general thefts. And as the person works harder for the gang, the profit realized is increased as well.

Finally, there is strength, either real or perceived. Ther is no doubt strength in numbers, and that is what the gangs rely on for intimidation, networking of ther goods (ie drugs, stolen auto parts, etc.), and notoriety. When you hear a gang member say he/she does not like the attention, you know THAT one is lying! Ever see this guys on TV? Mugging it up, talking a mile a minute, but usually having their faces covered by the correct colored bandana.

These are a couple fo the reasons gangs exist. There are no doubt many more that clinicians would point to, but these are the most prominent in my experience.