The rise in youth gangs in Australia is related to masculinity issues.
Many young boys and men have a need for excitement and to feel that they are ‘real men.’ Youth gangs, which appear to be attracting younger and younger members, are largely male.
In a scary and confused world, some boys find a sense of security and family within the gang formation. In a society that does not honour transitions or rites of passage, some boys find those rituals inside a gang. Tests of courage are earned by defying authorities, vandalising, stealing or fighting—in some cases by partaking in senseless acts of gratuitous violence. Read more »
