Doctor explains psychology behind gangs - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Doctor explains psychology behind gangs

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ALBANY, GA (WALB) -

We take a look at the psychology behind gangs.

Dr. Cheryl Kaiser says people who join gangs typically feel dispossessed or alienated and are looking for a group to belong to.

She says gangsters see fellow members as family and won't hesitate to retaliate with violence if they feel one of their members has been hurt.

"When something happens in reverse, it's all cost for them, they can do a drive by shooting or whatever, but when somebody does it to them, it's a whole different ball of wax and so that's the kind of thing that often makes a gang banger get very retaliative or very pushed over the edge," said Dr. Kaiser.

Kaiser suggests that parents look for good role models for their children and get them involved in positive community groups at a young age to reduce the chances that they'll join a gang.

 

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