What is considered a key predictor for membership in a gang?

A key predictor for membership in a gang is exposure. This refers to the environments and social contexts in which individuals find themselves, particularly during their formative years. When young people are exposed to gang culture or criminal activity—whether through their peers, family, or community—they are more likely to be influenced by these elements and become involved in gang activity themselves.

Exposure can include witnessing gang influence in one's neighborhood, having friends or family members involved in gangs, or being part of social circles where gang affiliation is normalized. This exposure can create a perception that joining a gang is a viable option for social status, protection, or belonging.

While financial incentives, location, and friendship loyalty can play roles in gang involvement, they often stem from or are influenced by the level of exposure to gangs and gang culture. Therefore, understanding exposure is critical for addressing gang-related issues and developing strategies to prevent gang membership.