Dating someone in a gang

A gang is a group of associates, friends or members of a family with a defined leadership and internal organization that identifies with or claims control over territory in a community and engages, either individually or collectively, in illegal, and possibly violent, behavior.

The Yakuza are among one of the largest criminal organizations in the world.

It’s a sad commentary that for some young people, gangs function as surrogate families.

Making a teenager feel loved and accepted for who he is at home eliminates much of the lure of a gang in the first place.

Low self-esteem and a history of academic failure also drive young people to gangs.

Among the tip-offs that a teen may be fraternizing with a gang: The best way for keeping a young person from getting caught up in the gang lifestyle is to follow the same principles stressed throughout this book: Spend time with him, show him affection and stay in touch with him and his world, even when he seems to be shutting you out.