NCJ Number
132611
Journal
Mid-American Review of Sociology Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter 1991) Pages: 43-52
Date Published
1991
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Female gang delinquency and deviant behavior, as exhibited by women who act as an auxiliary counterpart to a male gang, are examined in light of the role the gang plays as a peer network. The forms of female gang delinquency are explored through an analysis of ambiguous deviance norms operating within the gang structure.
Abstract
Female gang members are caught within competing behavioral norms, forced to adopt deviant behavior in order to secure their unique positions as females within a delinquent gang. As a result, their deviance suffices for gang membership, but falls short of contradicting expected female characteristics. This paper examines the explanatory framework and coinciding specific forms of acceptable deviance in the context of sexual promiscuity, drug use, aggressive or violent behavior, and motherhood of female gang members. 9 references (Author abstract modified)