Multiple Marginality and the Variation in Delinquency and Substance use Among Adolescent Gang Members

Abstract

Background: Gang membership is a significant contributor to delinquency and violent victimization among adolescents. Yet, there is considerable variability in the extent to which gang members engage in delinquency and substance use, and previous research suggests factors beyond the individual level are important to consider. Objectives: Using the multiple marginality framework, this study examines the factors related to the family, school, and neighborhood contexts that may contribute to delinquency and substance use among current gang members. Methods: Between 2013 and 2015, we conducted quantitative surveys with 449 self-identified gang members between the ages of 14 and 19 years old in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Surveys included measures to assess delinquency, substance use, parental involvement, educational attainment, drug distribution, and police involvement. We ran simple and multiple regressions to assess the relationship between family, school, and neighborhood factors and delinquency and substance use. Results: Regression analyses revealed several significant predictors of delinquency and substance use among adolescent gang members including parental substance use and incarceration, school safety, police contact, and neighborhood disorder. Conclusions: Family and school factors are likely important protective factors against delinquency and substance use among gang members. Interventions at the family and community level may be particularly important in reducing poor health and social outcomes for adolescent gang members.

Quantifying Marginality Across the Globe: An Empirical Assessment of Vigil’s Multiple Marginality Model in Predicting Gang Involvement

“…The importance of neighborhood context in these models is consistent with what some scholars have found in regard to collective monitoring on gang members’ delinquency and substance use (Quinn et al, 2018). The findings from the current research shed light on the importance of community contextual factors, and may even point toward the relevance of other controls (Bursik & Grasmick, 1993) in predicting gang involvement, as opposed to just those exerted by family, school, and law enforcement as specified in Vigil’s model.…”

The empirical grounding of a framework for the risk assessment of violent extremism and other forms of group-based violence.

“…The third theme that emerged from the nonoverlapping factors was that of “demographics,” including age (e.g., Dubow et al, 2019; Smith, 2018), race/or ethnicity (Collins et al, 2018; Merrilees et al, 2013; Smith, 2018), and gender (Pauwels & Schils, 2016; Quinn et al, 2019; Smith, 2018). While the empirical evidence for these factors was thoroughly mixed in the research reviewed, there are other legal, ethical, and practical limitations to the inclusion of ascribed demographic characteristics in a risk assessment measure, though a discussion of these issues is beyond the scope of this article (see Tondry, 2014; but cf.…”

A Good Place to Do Time? Detailing the Construction of Symbolic Social Boundaries in Correctional Boot Camps

“…This dynamic is in line with a considerable body of scholarly research documenting how marginalized individuals can be drawn to criminally involved groups because they offer an appealing identity and sense of belonging. Researchers have most consistently detailed this situation in the literature on street and prison gangs (Bucerius, Schultz, & Haggerty, 2023;Quinn et al, 2019;Vigil, 1988), and further research comparing these topics seems to be a logical step. concluSion Despite the positive tenor of our participants' assessments, we want to stress that we do not advocate for boot camp as a programming option.…”