How to Help a Teen Deal With Gangs

Gang violence in schools has become so prevalent that schools often have special police officers assigned to deal with it. Being aware of gang involvement or gang intimidation is necessary to keep your teen safe and involved with kids who are positive influences. Teens looking for acceptance will often look for negative attention just as readily as they seek positive attention. Setting a strong example and being an active parent are two ways to help your teen steer clear of gangs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Teach Your Teen How to Respond to Gang Violence

1. Treat the problem seriously. If your teen is fearful of someone at school, contact school authorities or the police to deal with the situation immediately. Keeping your teen out of danger is your first priority.
2. Set an appointment to meet with the school principal or vice principal immediately. Sometimes school authorities are unaware of a volatile situation until it's too late.
3. Tell your teen to avoid the kids in gangs. If your teen feels intimidated, let him know that it is okay to walk or run away from these gangs.
4. Encourage your teen to create a positive relationship with a trusted adult at her school. Make sure she knows there is someone at school she can go to if she is being intimidated by gang members.

Keep Your Teen out of Gangs

5. Be a positive influence for your teen. Providing a strong parental role model is considered the best way to help your teen through difficult situations.
6. Give as much attention as possible to your teen. Gang involvement sometimes starts because teens aren't getting the attention they need at home. Be your teen's biggest fan! If your teen feels supported, valued and respected in his house, he may be less likely to try and meet those emotional needs elsewhere.
7. Help your teen focus on her goals for the future. Ask her to think about the bigger picture. This is especially important to focus on until teens can set strong future plans for themselves.

Tips & Warnings

• Enroll your teen in conflict resolution classes if they are offered in your community. Contact your local police department gang unit for more information on how to deal with gangs.
• Gang involvement almost always includes drug or alcohol abuse. Be prepared to test your teen for drug use if you suspect there is a problem. At-home drug-testing kits can be purchased from a drugstore at moderate prices.