Gangs, Girls

Gender Socialization

Socialization by gender is a large contributor to the historical criminality differences between boys and girls. From birth, society views girls as needing protection. From infancy, girls are socialized to believe that relationships build self-worth whereas boys are taught independence, not to cry, to be manly, to protect sisters, and to seek retaliation. Parenting is stricter for girls, and parents are more judgmental in raising daughters than sons: The expectations for being a “good” girl are high.

As toddlers, girls are observed playing in groups and claiming “best friends,” whereas boys play side by side on a more individual basis. This socialization breeds fear of isolation that continues as girls age into adolescence. The desire to remain within the group can lead to bullying and the manipulation of loyalties [Page 341](nonphysical aggression but nevertheless emotionally damaging to their victims) just to retain a place within the group. Victimization comes from isolation and division from the original group by passing notes, leaving someone out, bullying, and shaming. Those targeted respond with anxiety, self-blame, loss of pride, depression, and shame. Victimization and fear of isolation can lead girls to choose abusive relationships rather than be alone.

As girls grow into adolescence they continue to “lose their voices” and self-esteem. This is especially true if they are victims of physical or sexual abuse, bullying, and isolation. Lack of school success continues to diminish self-worth. The search for self-affirmation can lead girls to gangs, where, for the price of initiation, acceptance can be found. Acting out the feelings can be through self-mutilation or being easy prey for abusers.

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