Policy Press

Gangs, Drugs and Youth Adversity

Continuity and Change

By Ross Deuchar, Robert McLean and Chris Holligan

Published

Dec 2, 2021

Page count

190 pages

ISBN

978-1529210569

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Dec 2, 2021

Page count

190 pages

ISBN

978-1529210583

Dimensions

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Dec 2, 2021

Page count

190 pages

ISBN

978-1529210583

Dimensions

Imprint

Bristol University Press
Gangs, Drugs and Youth Adversity

In Glasgow, street gangs have existed for decades, with knife crime becoming a defining feature.

More than a decade on from Deuchar’s original fieldwork, this book explores the transitional experiences of some of the young men he worked with, as well as the experiences of today’s young people and the practitioners who work to support them.

Through empirical data, policy analysis and contemporary insights, this dynamic book explores the evolving nature of gangs, and the contemporary challenges affecting young people including drug distribution, football-related bigotry and the mental health repercussions emerging from social media.

Ross Deuchar is Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice within the School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, UK, and Affiliate Research Professor in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Florida Atlantic University, USA.

Robert McLean is Lecturer in Criminal Justice and Policing in the School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland.

Chris Holligan is Professor of Education in the School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland. His academic publications embrace the disciplines of sociology, education, psychology, criminology and history.

Part 1: Gangs, Violence and Gang Evolution: History, Context and Methods

1. Introduction: Gangs and Violence in the UK

2. Violence and Gang Evolution: Scottish Perspectives

Part 2: Continuity and Change in the West of Scotland: Empirical Insights

3. Transitional Journeys and Contemporary Adversity: Practitioner Insights

4. Moving In, Moving Up and Moving On: Reflections of Adults and Former Gang Members

5. Gang Organisation, Drug Markets and Supply Among Youth

6. Diverse Contemporary Youth Influences and Challenges

Part 3: Conclusion

7. Framing and Re-Framing the Experiences of Youth in Disadvantaged Scottish Communities