The 'COPS' (USDOJ (800)-421-6770) provide 'A Parents Quick Reference Guide' to help recognize and prevent their child's gang involvement. The warning signs and suggestions for prevention below are NOT all encompassing and some musical preferences and popular clothing, etc, common among youth are not necessarily indications at all.
Parents are encouraged by the 'COPS' and FBI Youth programs to be vigilant and to familiarize themselves with local gang symbols, seek help early, and consider contacting school personnel, local law enforcement, faith leaders and community organization for additional assistance.
The Signs for concern:
· Shows an unusual interest in one or two particular colors of clothing or a particular logo.
· Has an unusual interest in gangster-influenced music, videos, movies, or websites.
· Uses unusual hand signals to communicate with friends.
· Has specific drawings or gang symbols on school books, clothes, walls, or tattoos
· Comes home with unexplained physical injuries (fighting-related bruises, injuries to hand/knuckles)
· Has unexplained cash or goods, such as clothing or jewelry
· Carries a weapon
· Exhibits negative changes in behavior such as: Withdrawing from family, Declining school attendance, performance, behavior
· Staying out late without reason
· Displaying an unusual desire for secrecy
· Exhibiting signs of drug use
· Breaking rules consistently
· Speaking in gang style slang
What Parents Can do to prevent Gang Involvement:
*Spend quality time with your child.
*Get involved in childs school activities.
*Take Action & create a neighborhood alliance, report & remove graffiti, etc.
*Be a positive role model by example.
*Know your child's friends & families.
*Encourage good study habits.
*Teach your child to cope with peer pressure.
*Help your child develop good conflict/resolution skills as found at safe youth org.
*Encourage your child to participate in after school activities with adult supervision.
*Talk to your child about the dangers and consequences of gang involvement. Let your child know you do not want to see them hurt or arrested.
Explain that they should NOT:
1. Associate with gang members.
2. Attend parties or social events sponsored by gangs.
3. They should not use hand signs, symbols or languages that is meaningful to gangs.
4. NOT wear clothing including specific colors that may have meaning to gangs in the area.
