Gang Behavior, Law Enforcement, and Community Values
Author(s)
Akerlof, George A.; Yellen, Janet L.
Abstract
This article examines the role of community norms and values in controlling crime. It argues that community cooperation with the police is essential for controlling crime. A model of inner-city gang behavior is developed that emphasizes the gangs’ pursuit of economic gain as well as the rational behavior of both gangs and community members. The model assumes that the primary limitation on crime is the gangs’ unwillingness to alienate their own communities. It explicitly includes factors that influence the likelihood of citizen cooperation with the police and concludes that managing community norms to enhance cooperation with the police is as important for controlling crime as harsh punishments or additional police activity. In addition, crime control approaches that undermine community values may prove counterproductive in the long-run.
