Juvenile Gangs in Bangladesh: A Criminological Review with Implications for Family Strengthening and Youth Welfare

Abstract

The streets of Bangladesh are increasingly being claimed by juvenile gangs, where lost dreams and broken families fuel a dangerous rebellion against society. The purpose of the study is to provide a comprehensive understanding of juvenile gang dynamics in Bangladesh by examining gang member profiles, activities, and the underlying causes of involvement. Using criminological theories as a framework, this research offers evidence-based strategies to prevent and reduce juvenile gang participation, with a particular emphasis on family strengthening. Following this approach, the study uses secondary sources to evaluate how the data align with relevant theoretical frameworks through thematic analysis. The findings indicate that most juveniles involved in gangs come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds or families with criminal associations and that these gangs often emerge under the protection of political influence. Juvenile gangs are primarily engaged in property-related and sexual offences. Among various criminological perspectives, subculture and interaction theories most effectively explain the underlying factors contributing to gang involvement. By integrating existing literature, the study explores the factors shaping juvenile gang activity in Bangladesh through a theoretical lens. Moreover, this study offers valuable insights often overlooked in previous research, particularly by examining the media’s influence on juvenile involvement in gang violence. Future research may explore more preventive strategies of juvenile gang involvement.