Pathways to Resilience IV: Global South Perspectives

Gang Membership and Resilience

Abstract #169
Title: Resilience in the face of gangsterism: Individual and community factors and Processes
Presenter: Desira Davids (Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, South Africa)
Co-Author: Zurina Abdulla, Zoleka Soji
Introduction: Gangsterism in South Africa is not a new phenomenon. This study  sought to explore and describe the experience-based lessons from males in areas where gangsterism is widespread on factors and processes that have been protecting them from becoming involved in gangsterism
Methods: The study employed a mixed method research approach that is exploratory, descriptive and contextual in design. A Purposive sampling technique was employed to select a group of males between the ages of 18 and older who grew up in areas where gangsterism is rife.
Findings: Preliminary findings from the qualitative data have identified protective factors and processes such as, positive connections, effective parenting  and community partnerships that can help youth who are growing up in high-risk communities.  The quantitative phase of the study will be finalised in March 2017. 
 
Abstract #26
Title: Narratives of gang joining, desistance and maintenance of reform amongst former gang members
Presenter: Jane Kelly (University of Cape Town, South Africa)
Co-Author: Catherine Ward
Introduction: Gang involvement in the Western Cape of South Africa is a critical problem in need of intervention, yet little research has explored the perspective of former gang members on leaving and staying out of the gang.
Methods: Drawing on the theories of critical realism and social constructionism as well as a resilience lens, this research studied the narratives of twelve former gang members in the Cape Flats area. Thematic analysis following a discursive approach was used to analyse these narratives.
Findings: Findings focus on how participants’ came to be gang members, desisted from gangs, and are currently maintaining reformed lifestyles. Emphasis is placed on how their environments facilitated these processes, and on typical and atypical resilience. Implications for prevention of gangsterism and intervening with gang involved youth will be discussed.