Nearly all the youth gangs operating in Florida, particularly in Dade County, are affiliated either with the "People" or "Folk" nations; this alignment of street gangs probably originated in the Illinois prison system by inmates who established gang coalitions in order to ensure their own protection while in prison. Both of these "nations" contain black, white, and Hispanic street gangs. Some reasons why youth become involved in gangs include a desire to belong, peer pressure, lack of opportunity, protection or fear, income, or family involvement in gangs. Levels of gang involvement are described, which indicate an individual's degree of participation in gang-related activities. This pamphlet outlines a profile of a typical gang member, describes indicators of gang involvement, and recommends actions parents can take to help their children. In addition, the graffiti, gang sign language, and gang identifiers unique to each street gang are portrayed in this booklet.