Puerto Rican Youth Gang Analysis

In modern societies a variety of different social, cultural and political factors have contributed to the emergence of gangs among the disadvantaged, and often youth demographics. These gangs are frequently responsible for perpetuating violence, and creating societal turmoil. This gang formation, and gang related violence is a product of the circumstances faced by many in contemporary societies. For example, in Puerto Rico, “Puerto Rican drug gangs emerged as epiphenomena of systematic exclusion tied to the political economy of a city that blocked access to the opportunities that defined dignified pathways to manhood” (Baird 2005: 113). Puerto Rican youths among others, were faced with oppression especially when it came to the workforce. The …show more content…
In the most recent rap culture all these rappers (black and white) talk about is sex, drugs, money and alcohol, because it appeals to the audience. They demoralize women and talk about them as if they are their sex dolls. Many of these rappers don't have girlfriends or wives and don't bother to get one because they have money, and that is the root of their happiness. The need for money plays a key factor in these youths lives, without money they believe they are worthless and will go to almost any length to acquire it. In my work I will investigate how performance, identity, and masculine capital in various societies has added to the growth of youth gangs and the continuation of gang related violence. Respect after joining a gang is earned, an individual is not granted respect by simply becoming affiliated within the gang. This can often be shown through criminalized acts of robbery, murder, etc. Its all about performance, often the leader of the gang would establish where the individual falls within the group according to the sacrifice they are willing to give. It is important to recognize to which extent some males go to prove themselves and be taken seriously by fellow gang members and other affiliated groups. “For males gaining …show more content…
It is likely that these youth will end up fending for themselves and getting involved in the drug trade. Which is why it is important for these youth to build a sense of identity for themselves. It is perhaps which life they choose to live, whether they work hard and find a job in the labor force, or sell drugs on the streets that defines who they are. Though through defeat in the workforce over and over again it is not uncommon to find these youth black males in gangs because they feel thats the only place they belong, and can identify with the