HOUSTON - With the recent deadly shooting near Lamar High School being blamed on gang violence, some parents are concerned about their children getting involved with gangs.
Here are some common warning signs of gang involvement:
- Use of an unfamiliar nickname.
- Wearing and/or displaying bandanas.
- Favoring certain colors or color combinations.
- Tattoos or graffiti of numbers, street names, initials, stars, pitchforks, crowns or other symbols.
Here are tips to keep kids from becoming involved in a gang:
Most young people who work with Anti-Gang Office counselors say they became involved in gangs or risky behaviors because no one was paying attention to them or seemed to care what they were doing until it was too late.
Parenting isn't always easy and young people can be challenging, but the most effective way to keep kids from making poor choices is to stay actively involved with them.
Help kids stay on the right track by
- Spending consistent, quality time with them.
- Talking to them and be an active listener.
- Reassure them that you care and are there to help them.
- Being a positive role model for them.
- Discussing the dangers and consequences of delinquent behaviors.
- Establishing rules, staying consistent, and following through with meaningful discipline.
- Limiting their time alone or unsupervised, and knowing their friends and their families.
- Praising and encouraging positive behavior.
- Involving them in extracurricular activities. Attending those activities.
What can parents do if they suspect gang involvement or delinquent behaviors?
Contact school administrators, counselors, health care professionals or youth service organizations that have experience in dealing with juvenile delinquency issues.
The Anti-Gang Office can help. Call 832.393.0931 or email Patricia.Harrington@houstontx.gov for more information or click here.