A major unresolved issue regarding contemporary gangs is the effects on gangs of the emergence of a new minority underclass in urban ghettos and barrios. This issue can be addressed only through analyses of how gangs and gang members lead their lives. Field studies are needed because little recent empirical research exists, some recent research suggests that gangs have changed fundamentally, and existing research indicates wide variations in gang types. In addition, gangs will be portrayed differently when studied in their natural environment rather than through official reports, homicide data, or prison interviews, because these approaches seldom accomplish more than reinforcing popular stereotypes. Therefore, collaborative and innovative forms of empirical research are needed. Notes.