Question

Most youths who join gangs have already been involved in delinquency and drug use. Once in the gang, they are quite likely to become more actively involved in delinquency, drug use, and violence—and they are more likely to be victimized themselves. . . .

Gang involvement dramatically alters youngsters’ life chances—particularly if they remain active in the gang for several years. . . . The gang acts as “a powerful social network” in constraining the behavior of members, limiting access to prosocial networks, and cutting individuals off from conventional pursuits. These
effects . . . bring disorder to the life course in a cascading series of difficulties, including school dropout, early pregnancy or early impregnation, teen motherhood, and unstable employment.

–“The Impact of Gangs on Communities,”
James C. Howell

What does the author mean when he states that gangs act as "powerful social networks” that "constrain the behavior” of members? Check all that apply.

Those involved with gangs are free to seek out other interests, such as school and sports.
Those involved with gangs are more likely to be cut off from their families.
Gangs encourage members to pursue college education and regular employment.
Being involved with a gang increases the likelihood of dropping out of school.
Once a person becomes involved with a gang, gang members replace his or her previous circle of friends.

Answer 1

Correct choices:
- Those involved with gangs are more likely to be cut off from their families.
- Being involved with a gang increases the likelihood of dropping out of school.
- Once a person becomes involved with a gang, gang members replace his or her previous circle of friends.

Reason: Howell says gangs act as powerful social networks that constrain members by limiting access to prosocial networks and cutting them off from conventional pursuits (like school, family ties, and legitimate friendships), increasing dropout and replacing prior social circles. The other two options contradict the passage.