About Us
Our Mission
The Center for Gang Studies is a multidisciplinary research institute dedicated to the comprehensive study of gang culture around the world. Our mission is to advance understanding of the emergence, evolution, and endurance of gangs through rigorous academic research, fieldwork, and policy analysis.
Gangs are a global phenomenon, shaped by complex social, economic, political, and cultural forces. From urban street crews to transnational criminal organizations, their presence affects communities, law enforcement, public health, and policymaking in profound ways. At the Center for Gang Studies, we aim to move beyond stereotypes and simplistic narratives, offering a deeper, evidence-based look into the realities of gang life.
Our Research
Our research explores:
- The origins and spread of gang structures across different regions and cultures.
- Sociological and psychological factors that lead individuals to join gangs.
- The intersection of gangs with politics, identity, and social movements.
- Strategies for prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation that are culturally and contextually effective.
- The role of media, music, and online platforms in shaping and reinforcing gang identities.
Collaboration and Resources
We collaborate with scholars, practitioners, former gang members, and community leaders to generate insights that can inform public policy, law enforcement practices, educational programs, and community-based responses. The Center serves as a hub for researchers, policymakers, and advocates working to understand — and ultimately transform — the conditions that sustain gang life.
Whether you're a researcher, policymaker, educator, or concerned citizen, the Center for Gang Studies offers resources, data, and analysis to help you better engage with one of the most pressing social issues of our time.