2014/07/19 by Richard K. Moule, David C. Pyrooz, Scott H. Decker · 79 citations
Computer Science · Psychology · Social Sciences · #Computer science #Crime Patterns and Interventions #Crime, Illicit Activities, and Governance #Criminology #Cybercrime and Law Enforcement Studies #Descriptive statistics #Psychology #Sociology #The Internet #World Wide Web
paper · doi:10.1093/bjc/azu050
published in The British Journal of Criminology 54(6), 1186-1206 (Oxford University Press)
openalex publication_date 2014/07/19 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/22
The globalization of street gangs has drawn attention to the mechanisms associated with the diffusion of gang culture. One mechanism, the Internet, is of growing interest to gang researchers. Yet, research on the online behaviours of street gangs remains descriptive, failing to elaborate on the factors that distinguish gangs that adopt, or do not adopt, technology and engage in online behaviours. The present study integrates insights from organizational theory to examine whether and to what extent gang organization influences the online presence and behaviour of gangs. Using data collected from gang members in five US cities, the results from a series of logistic and Poisson regression models indicate that higher levels of gang organization increase the likelihood that gangs have a website, post videos and recruit members online. Results support integrating research on gang behaviour with organizational theory. Directions for future research on the relationship between gang organization and offending are discussed.