of rules. The rules imposed by most parents and those imposed by most gang leaders are extremely different, however. In addition, unlike those rules imposed by most parents the rules imposed by gang members are understood and do not need formal articulation(Decker and Van Winkle 100). The most outstanding of these unspoken rules are: Being a perp (in 2 gangs at a time), running from a gang fight, or letting your gang rag touch the ground. These violations are punishable through many ways ranging from beatings to even death. In an attempt to enter into a family hierarchy, many youths will choose gangs as a substitute family. That of a functional family in gangs replaces the dysfunctional family that many of these youths arrive from. The gang provides support and even love that may be lacking at the homes of many of these youths. Furthermore, the gang also provides something that is also not easy to come by for many of these youths. That thing being money. Financial opportunities are very abundant in the gang lifestyle. These opportunities are much more lucrative than part time jobs. However, these opportunities do not come without drawbacks, as some of them are extremely dangerous. Prostitution, for example, is a way that many gangs raise revenue. This is one of Americas oldest professions, however it is also one of the most dangerous. Many gangs use drug addicts as hookers. These drug addicts are primarily young girls who are actually not members of the gang (Sanders 141). These women are often termed as hoes.In addition to prostitution, many gangs resort to theft in order to increase earnings. Gang members have been known to steal anything ranging from cars, jewels, wallets, and an assortment of many other things. Thievery, however, is a very risky business. Police or even worse, an opposing gang member can easily apprehend one. In this case a gang member may rather be apprehended by police officers rather than feel ...
