Question

Girls seem to be attracted to gangs out of a desire for safety or power, and a sense of belonging. Studies of female gang members show that many have come from homes with a high incidence of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and family dysfunction. Growing up in poverty, isolated from the economic mainstream, marginalized because of race, class, and academic failure, girls most likely to affiliate with gangs tend to feel hopeless about their future.

Far from offering girls a safe haven, however, gang membership puts adolescent girls at an increased risk of victimization and violence. Girls are often treated as the sexual property of male gang members. During initiations, girls may be beaten, sexually assaulted, or gang raped. As gang members, girls face increased risks of unsafe sex, sexual abuse, teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and suicide.

–“Guiding Principles for Promising Female Programming,”
Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention

Which are common characteristics of gang involvement for girls? Check all that apply.

They choose gangs in order to feel powerful and safe.
They are more likely to experience sexual assault.
They are less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior.
They have an increased risk of suicide.
They have an increased risk of drug and alcohol addiction.
They come from homes with lower rates of domestic violence.

Answer 1

Correct selections:
- They choose gangs in order to feel powerful and safe. (Passage: attracted by desire for safety/power and belonging.)
- They are more likely to experience sexual assault. (Passage: increased victimization; initiations may include sexual assault/gang rape.)
- They have an increased risk of suicide. (Passage: increased risk of suicide.)
- They have an increased risk of drug and alcohol addiction. (Passage: increased risk of substance abuse.)

Incorrect:
- They are less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior. — False (passage: increased risks of unsafe sex).
- They come from homes with lower rates of domestic violence. — False (passage: many come from homes with high incidence of domestic violence).