Gangism

/ˈɡæŋɡɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The behavior, culture, or practice of belonging to gangs, particularly organized criminal gangs.

Etymology

From 'gang' plus the suffix '-ism' (a system or practice). This term emerged in 20th-century sociology and criminology to describe gang-related behavior and social phenomena.

Kelly Says

Sociologists use 'gangism' to study how young people create alternative hierarchies and identities through gangs—it's not just crime, but a complex social system with its own rules, honor codes, and family-like bonds.

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