By reference source using Harvard method provide a definition for the concept gang

1 answer

The concept of a gang can be defined as a group or association of individuals, typically involving young people, who engage in criminal activities or display a pattern of antisocial behavior. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (2021), a gang is "a loosely organized group of criminals bound together by a common set of interests or a common code of conduct." Gangs often form as a result of shared interests, neighborhood ties, or a sense of societal exclusion, and may operate within geographic areas or specific communities. These groups commonly participate in various illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, violence, theft, and intimidation, which are intended to establish dominance, protect their territory, and generate profit. While some gangs may exist solely for criminal purposes, others develop social cohesion, offering members a sense of belonging and identity.