The rise of teenage gang culture has become a serious issue in society today. While it was once mainly seen in cities, it is now spreading to rural areas as well. "Teenage gangs" are groups of young people who get involved in criminal activities and show off their power and dominance. This growing problem is not only harmful to teenagers but to the whole society.
There are several reasons behind the rise of teenage gangs. First, family neglect and poverty push many teenagers towards crime. In poorer areas, families struggle with money, face difficult living conditions, and lack proper education.
As a result, teenagers who don't get enough support at home often look for belonging in criminal groups. Secondly, issues like parents separating or not spending enough time with their children can leave teenagers feeling emotionally empty, leading them to make bad choices. On top of that, the influence of drugs, violent movies, the internet, and social media makes gang culture more appealing to teenagers.
Teenage gangs are involved in many serious crimes such as stealing, robbing, drug dealing, fighting, and other violent acts. Gang members often clash with each other, and this has led to more injuries, deaths, and permanent disabilities. As a result, people are scared for their safety, and fear spreads in society.
This criminal behavior harms not just teenagers but also the peace and order of society. It disrupts the educational environment in schools and colleges, as violence is becoming more common. This makes it harder for students to focus on their studies, and some even get attracted to criminal activities themselves.
Adolescence is a critical time in life. Teenagers go through many emotional and mental changes and seek friendship, respect, and a place in society. One reason teenage gangs form is that young people want to feel accepted and powerful. By joining a gang, they try to prove themselves as strong and brave.
However, most of these teenagers lack self-confidence and proper guidance. They turn to crime because they don't know where else to go. Many join gangs to show their strength, take revenge, or protect their group. This violent mentality can cause many problems in their future.
“Raising awareness about the dangers of teenage gangs is essential. Schools and local organizations should run workshops and discussions to educate people. The media, including social media, can help spread positive messages to young people”
In Bangladesh, law enforcement plays a key role in tackling teenage gang-related crimes. Although there are laws in place for dealing with young offenders, the law is not always effective, and the legal process takes a long time. Sometimes, political influence protects these young people from facing punishment.
In recent years, the police have tried to control teenage gangs, especially by conducting anti-drug campaigns and stopping gang violence in cities. However, solving this problem requires more than just police action. It needs a wider approach involving social awareness and community efforts.
To prevent the spread of teenage gang culture, we need to work together. Families, schools, the government, and social organizations all have roles to play. First, families must provide proper care, love, and guidance. Parents should be aware of their children's emotional struggles and build trust through open conversations.
Second, schools and colleges should also play an important role. Regular programs that teach good values, sports, cultural activities, and teamwork should be organized. Teachers and community leaders can help guide students in the right direction.
Third, raising awareness about the dangers of teenage gangs is essential. Schools and local organizations should run workshops and discussions to educate people. The media, including social media, can help spread positive messages to young people.
Lastly, strict law enforcement is necessary. The police must act quickly and fairly, ensuring that those involved in gangs face justice. It is also important to set up rehabilitation programs for young offenders so they can return to society as responsible citizens.
Teenage gang culture has become a major social problem that cannot be solved by the police alone. It requires the combined efforts of families, schools, society, and the government. By creating a safe and supportive environment for teenagers, we can help them make better choices. If we focus on good governance and moral values, we can prevent this growing problem and create a better future for everyone.
The writer is a student,
Department of Psychology, Dhaka College
