Abstract

Abstract This chapter develops Lauger and Rivera’s (2022) isolated and integrated affiliation models to explore how gang membership may intersect with religion to influence behavior. The isolated affiliation model posits that gang members will be exposed to religion, but tension between the gang and religious life undermines their interaction. When gang members do embrace religion, it creates a conflict that forces individuals to choose either gang or religious life. Choosing religion is a step toward gang disengagement and reductions in criminal behavior. The integrated affiliation model posits that some gang members will engage with religious groups or institutions and embrace beliefs even when they contradict gang ideals. Yet it also recognizes that some gangs may be openly religious or include elements of religion. The influence of religion on gang member behavior under the integrated affiliation model is uncertain, and this chapter concludes by exploring possible ways religion may impact criminal behavior.

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