Why does Thrasher say gangs can’t be defined by a dictionary?
because gangs vary widely and must be understood through observation of real cases + comparison with other social groups
What is a Gang
interstitial groups that emerge spontaneously and are integrated through conflict
What distinguishes gangs from clubs or formal organizations?
gangs form spontaneously and unreflectively rather than through planning, rules, or formal membership
“Orgiastic” or expressive behavior
playful or expressive activities like talking, loafing, gambling, drinking, or storytelling that build group spirit
What transforms a group into a true gang?
collective movement through space + conflict with hostile forces
How is a gang different from a mob?
a gang is organized and stable; a mob is temporary and emotionally driven
Movement that best characterizes gangs
linear, cooperative movement (“gang going”)
Types of Collective Behaviour in the Gang
- Circular Movement
- Linear Movement (parallel/cooperative)
- Combative Movement
- Dispersive Movement
Circular movement
expressive activities (e.g., celebrations, talkfests) that prepare the group for action
Two types of Liner Movement
a) parallel
b) co-operative
Parallel (Linear Movement)
- gang members move together in the same direction but act independently w/o coordinating specific roles
- includes such movements as a rush for seats or for a prize (“gold rush”)
Cooperative (Linear Movement)
- gang members move in a coordinated, planned sequence where each member has a specific role/task
- includes roaming, migration, attack, stealing, games, etc.
Combative Movement
- includes conflict behaviour of a group (gang battle, war, feuds)
- combat becomes the end of the group act
- serves the purpose of integrating the gang + augmenting its solidarity
Dispersive Movement
- represents the break-up of the gang’s morale and the temporary dissolution of its cohesion
- often follows unsuccessful combat
- includes panic type of behaviour, (rout, stampede)
Gangs are charactertized by the following behaviour:
- meet face to face
- milling
- movement through space as a unit
- conflict
- planning
Result of collective behaviour in gangs
- development of tradition
- unreflective internal structure
- esprit de corps
- solidarity
- morale
- group awareness
- attachment to a local territory
