Signs Your Child Might Be in a Gang
- Being arrested or detained by the police
- Carrying a weapon
- Changes in dress habits such as wearing the same color combination all the time
- Changes in type of friends
- Declining interest in school and family
- Extra cash from unknown sources
- Gang symbols on books or clothing
- Secretiveness about activities
- Tattoos
If you notice these patterns, get help. Contact the school counselor or the police department.
Make Sure Your Child Doesn't Need a Gang
- Know about your child's friends and their friends' families.
- Put a high value on education and help your child to do his or her best in school. Do everything possible to prevent dropping out.
- Show your child love with lots of hugs and reassurances. Talk with and listen to your child.
- Supervise your children's activities. Help them get involved in athletics or other activities that interest them.
- Talk about your values and why you think gangs are dangerous. Discuss the violence, drug dealing, hatred of other groups for no reason, and the likelihood of being arrested and imprisoned. Don't forget to listen.