Gang violence is referred to as the non-political and illegal activities mainly affiliated to violent behaviors whose perpetration is conducted by a cohesive group against the civilians, military personnel, law enforcement personnel, or other gangs (Lawson 570). There are three theoretical perspectives that apply to the gang violence namely “symbolic interaction,” “functional/structural analysis” and “conflict theory.”
Concerning symbolic interaction, it is explained that gang violence is considered as a good subject of engagements for interacting. The symbolic interactionists view gangs and their violence-related activities as the structured individual groups in the community where people interact every time. A good example of the perspective is when the gangs want to pursue their criminal activities such as drug deals, they must, in a way, interact to complete their desired actions and tasks (Lawson 579).
In regards to functional/structural analysis, the functionalists are focused on how those involved in gang violence can be seen as useful citizens in the community since their perspective is that they are serving a purpose in the society. The functionalists argue that the entry into gang activities help to reduce the prevalence of poverty in the society (Lawson 581).
In relation to conflict theory, gang violence is considered as an issue that does not arise from a vacuum. The conflict theorists posit that gang violence is triggered by the societal and economic vices causing inequal treatment such as discrimination and marginalization in employment and ownership of property. As a result, people resort to engage in gang violence as a way of survival and venting out their frustrations (Lawson 584).
Therefore, of the above three theoretical perspectives discussed, one that can be used to propose solutions to the problem of gang violence is conflict theory. The reason being, gang violence is perpetuated by those sharing the common interests, low status and economic standing. They want power and financial prosperity, and this compels them to be involved in such criminal activities as drug selling. As a result, considering the need arising from this conflicting situation is imperative. It is thus mandatory to ensure that the gang members are absorbed into useful economic engagements by being provided with legitimate jobs.
Work Cited
Lawson, Jennifer. "Gang Violence from Different Sociological theories." Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment 22.5 (2017): 572-590.
