How Are Gangs Identified?

Most gang members are proud of their affiliation and often freely admit their membership. They do this verbally, by "shooting signs" or making gestures with their hands that identify their gang or by wearing distinct clothing, jewelry, or shoes. Many openly display gang tattoos or cover their personal belongings with their gang’s name. Gang members often adopt nicknames that become their new identity or “moniker.” Gangs are also identified by their graffiti, hairstyles, and certain undergarments.

As gangs have received more pressure from law enforcement, school officials, and parents, many have changed their outward appearance to become less noticeable. They will still wear a particular type of clothing or color identifying their gang; they are just a little more discrete. For example, to still "represent" their gang and its colors, gang members might adopt the sports gear of a professional team that has the same color scheme. They will wear professional sports team jackets, caps and shirts to proudly display their gang’s colors, even if they don’t follow that team’s wins and losses.

• What Is a Gang?
• Gang Types
• Graffiti
• How Do Gangs Recruit Their Members?
• Common Gang Initiations
• Why Young People Join Gangs?
• How Old Are Gang Members?
• Major Factors That May Contribute To Youth Gang Involvement
• Warning Signs That Your Child May Be Involved with a Gang
• What Can Parents Do To Prevent Gang Involvement?
• What Are Some School-based Anti-Gang Strategies?
• What Are Some Community Anti-Gang Strategies?
• Common Myths About Gangs
• How Do I Report Gang Activity?