Gangs are us: Hustlin', survivin', strivin' and social (dis)order

In this thesis, I discuss the dynamics of an urban street gang from the perspective of the experiences of five Puerto Rican street gang members. I also describe current reactions and acts of resistance by local residents in the context of a rapidly changing community in Chicago. Finally, I sketch specific local, state and federal initiatives presently being utilized to combat the urban phenomenon of street gangs and propose alternative recommendations.