A sociological examination of gang involvement shows that gangs compose a wide spectrum of human interaction. Research indicates that the reasons for the criminal or deviant behavior of gangs are similar to the reasons for the behavior of socially accepted groups. Conflicts and differences with adults are normal for youth. The perception by the community of the ways that the youth demonstrate these conflicts defines the level of perceived deviance. If the behavior is viewed as socially positive, then any differences between adults and youth will be ignored or minimized. If, however, the differences are striking and seriously conflict with the accepted norms of the community, the differences will be magnified and closely scrutinized. Various groups are attracted to symbols that represent a level of unity and association. Gangs are negatively labeled for their association with "colors." Boy Scouts, on the other hand, have a specific uniform requirement for membership, as does the Aladdin Shrine Temple; yet they are positively labeled by society. It is "deviant" for a youth gang member to display a gang sign when the gang leader walks up, but it is acceptable for a Marine corporal to salute a Colonel who enters the room. The author's interviews with gang members who enter the prison system indicate that many gangs in Ohio do not move past a "camaraderie" stage. They do not reach a higher level of organization necessary for the development of a criminal enterprise, although there is a lot of crime associated with the gang. Studies show that youth gang members have aspirations of achieving success, fame, and fortune, just like most people, but they either have difficulty in obtaining these goals in a manner that is socially acceptable or are banned from the means to succeed altogether. 12 notes