The Gang Youths and Their Parents. Symbolic Patterns of Detachment
Analysis of the role a family plays in youth gang formation involves something of a paradox. Intrafamilial functioning is commented on and deduced rather than directly observed, while the interventions of authorities are increasingly intrusive and constraining. One of the explanations for this contrast lies in methodology. Statistical approaches tend to hide the micro-sociological processes that are part of close family relationships and family symbolism. The challenge is to find a way to undertake studies that take into account the structure and symbolic aspect of the family. This article uses empirically based analysis to look at the reciprocal ideas and moral judgments of gang youths and their parents. The analyses suggests that it is necessary to question, or to change, the way researchers on juvenile delinquency investigate and analyse family factors relating to juvenile delinquency, particularly the phenomenon of youth gangs.