Resources/Help/Tips
August 25, 1999
A child joining a gang may be a parent's worst nightmare.
In today's Family Now report, Ruth Todd explains the signs of gang activity and where parents can look for help.
Most parents naturally are concerned about their children's friends.
But an even deeper issue can taint the beginning of the school year-- the fear their kids will join a gang.
However, if parents know the warning signs, they may be able to lessen the odds of that happening.
Gang experts say the first clue may be what your child is wearing.
Vernon Hairston/Ogden-Weber Metro Gang Project: "THE CLOTHES THAT THEY WEAR, LOOK FOR NUMBERS IN PARTICULAR, SYMBOLS, SIGNS, DRAWINGS, GRAFFITI."
For example, in Ogden, the 18th Street gang uses the number 18 on clothes, graffiti and belt buckles.
And regularly wearing the color red or blue, and sagging pants, is another sign.
A tattoo is another indication, and it doesn't have to be professionally done. Kids often draw slogans or symbols on themselves, their clothes and their notebooks.
Gangs use symbols because they aren't shy about letting people know what they are.
Vernon Hairston: "GANGS LIKE TO SHOW OFF, THEY WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT THEY'RE THERE, THEY WANT TO BE NOTED."
Vernon Hairston: "THEY WEAR THESE THINGS, THEY WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT THEY'RE A GANG MEMBER JUST TO TRY TO INTIMIDATE YOU."
Gang symbols and signs are well-document.
For example, there are 86 documented gangs in the Ogden-Weber County area and they all use different names, numbers and symbols.
Parents should also be aware that kids often turn to gangs for something they're missing - like friendship or wealth.
Vernon Hairston: "IF KIDS AREN'T GETTING THESE THINGS IN ONE WAY, THEY'LL TRY TO FULFILL THEM IN ANOTHER WAY, AND GANGS ARE OUT THERE OFFERING THAT."
Experts say that parents should not allow their child to dress in gang clothing and should provide alternative activities, like sports or hobbies.
For more information about recognizing the signs of gang activity in your kids and where to turn for help, call the Family Now information line at 1-800-575-5751.
