Members discuss why they became gang members with the most often cited reason being because they had a friend or family member who were either interested in joining a gang or were already members. Observing individuals who may already be members of a gang with money, guns, and women appeal to the young males who live in socially disadvantaged neighborhoods. The absence of a father figure also played a significant role in the decision. According to the respondents, the notion of protection, which was believed to be a major role prior to the interviewing process, was not a significant reason for joining a gang. The majority of the interviewees who were contemplating leaving, or stated they were looking to get out, were, in effect, aging out of the gang lifestyle. These members were considering leaving in an effort to support their families; however, they mentioned that they would still answer when, or if, the gang called upon them. Loyalty to the gang is emphasized at every level and it is difficult to simply step away from. Data were collected from 200 gang members from Fort Worth, TX. Bibliography