Adolescent males' perceptions of gangs and gang violence

Gang violence is an escalating public health problem in the US. This study explored adolescent males' experiences with gangs and gang violence, from their perspectives of the adolescents, their parents, and community center employees. A qualitative design was used to explore perceptions of adolescents' experiences gangs and gang violence. A dolescents, their parents, and community center employees were asked to participate in the study. Ten adolescents, their parents, and six community center employees participated in the study. Adolescents, parents, and community center employees had different perceptions of gangs, gang violence, and adolescents' experiences with gangs. These adolescents were exposed to gang violence in their neighborhoods; indeed, it was a constant presence in their lives. Their perceptions of gangs and gang violence influenced the adolescents' security and ability to socialize with friends.