A Social Movement Theory Typology of Gang Violence
Abstract
This thesis uses social movement theory to describe the formation of street gangs and to account for their high levels of violence. By understanding street gangs as a social movement that contributes to the gang cycle, my hope is that communities and law enforcement will be able to adopt better strategies for breaking the cycle. Likewise, the study of street gangs serves as a laboratory for counterinsurgency operations overseas. By understanding the potential effects of repression on a population, future counterinsurgent operators will better understand the complex environment in which they serve. As demonstrated by the case studies of Salinas and Oakland, California, continued coercive repression and negative channeling are recipes for creating isolation within a community that leads to fragmentation and increased violence.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA524726
Entities
People
- Joseph E. Long
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School