Abstract
Interventions for gang members inside correctional facilities can be especially challenging because of difficulties identifying gang members, as well as members' more extensive and long-standing histories of justice involvement. This chapter presents data on the scope and impact of gangs internationally, and discusses research relevant to understanding, preventing, and reducing gang activity. It discusses findings on factors that motivate gang members to leave their gangs as they age into later adolescence and early adulthood, particularly as a function of changing social roles or economic incentives. The chapter describes the current state of knowledge with respect to gang activity and affiliation in the community as well as in correctional settings, and offers an overview of contemporary approaches to managing gangs and gang members within the law enforcement and correctional systems. It seems clear that although substantial efforts are being made in communities and within correctional facilities to deal with the problem of gangs, much work still needs to be done.