Robert J. Durán: Gang Life in Two Cities: An Insider’s Journey

Excerpt

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, youth violence is a top public health concern because of the long-lasting detrimental effects on physical health, emotional well-being, educational progress, and socioeconomic stability well into adulthood. Research also demonstrates that gang violence and homicides account for a substantial proportion of violence among youths in some cities. Although there is a wide array of research that investigates the sources, correlates, and outcomes of gang violence, the significance of the symbiotic interactions between historical, cultural, and structural inequalities in relationship to gang violence is limited. Moreover, Dr. Durán stresses that any interventions and policies that pursue to stem the tide of youth and gang violence must consider the contextual significance racial and ethnic oppression, segregation, and marginalization. Data for this ethnographic qualitative research is collected from two cities: Denver, Colorado and Ogden, Utah. Over a span of 5 years, participant observation, thirty-two semi-structured interviews, and field notes observing one hundred and forty-five individuals gang members, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other relevant individuals were the methods that data were drawn for this research. In this book, Dr. Durán seeks to ask a research question, present theoretical and research evidence, and portray a convincing argument that in order to address the youth violence that stems from gangs, we should move beyond punitive criminal justice policies and improve socioeconomic resources and opportunities to disadvantaged communities, families, and youth. …