Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management

Urban violence is usually related to the evolution of gangs. Gangs in many cases have become an alternative of social rising in extreme in vulnerable and segregated territories. Recent literature suggests that participation in gangs occurs at early ages usually during school age. Using data from one of the most dangerous areas of Santiago, this paper seeks to evaluate the role of social capital on early involvements of children aged 12 to 18 in gangs. Measures of violence at the household, community and school level and individuals’ indicators of social capital and networks are used to understand the social context of children living in the area. We conclude that the relationship with a paternal figure as well as household and neighbourhood violence are relevant to explain participation in gangs. Participation in football hooligan groups also seems to be relevant in the analysed cases. Further analysis suggests high levels of spatial concentration for participation in gangs.