Scale Description

The Attitudes Toward Gangs Scale (ATG-9) is a tool used to measure individuals’ attitudes toward gangs. The scale consists of 9 items designed to capture perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes about gangs. It is frequently used in research studies to understand the attractiveness and influence of gangs on youth.

Data Analysis and Usage

Data collected using the ATG-9 are analyzed to understand the factors influencing individuals’ attitudes toward gangs. Responses can be categorized and quantitatively analyzed to draw conclusions about the social and psychological influences related to gang involvement or acceptance.

Objective

The main objective of the ATG-9 scale is to examine how attitudes toward gangs are formed and how these attitudes can affect the decision to join a gang. By understanding these attitudes, researchers can develop prevention and intervention strategies to reduce the attractiveness of gangs, especially among youth.

Calibration

The calibration of the ATG-9 scale is typically done using a Likert scale, where participants rate their level of agreement or disagreement with each statement. Scores can be used to categorize participants based on their level of acceptance or rejection of gangs.

Bibliography

Esbensen, F.-A., & Huizinga, D. (1993). Gangs, drugs, and delinquency in a survey of urban youth. Criminology, 31(4), 565-589.

Esbensen, F.-A., & Osgood, D. W. (1999). Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT): Results from the national evaluation. Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, 36(2), 194-225.

Thornberry, T. P., Krohn, M. D., Lizotte, A. J., & Chard-Wierschem, D. (1993). The role of juvenile gangs in facilitating delinquent behavior. Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, 30(1), 55-87.

Decker, S. H., & Van Winkle, B. (1996). Life in the gang: Family, friends, and violence. Cambridge University Press.

Howell, J. C. (2000). Youth gang programs and strategies. OJJDP Juvenile Justice Bulletin.