EXPERIENCE-BASED LESSONS FROM MALES IN THE NORTHERN AREAS OF PORT ELIZABETH (GQEBERHA) ON FACTORS THAT PROTECTED THEM FROM BECOMING INVOLVED IN GANGSTERISM

Despite the widespread prevalence of gangsterism and the predominantly male membership of gangs, some males residing and growing up in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), where gangsterism is so widespread, have never been involved in gangs. A qualitative study, explorative, descriptive and contextual in design, using semi-structured interviews as data-collection method, explored and described the experience-based lessons from selected males on factors that have protected them from gang involvement. Findings included family support, faith or religion, positive role models, education, participation in wholesome pursuits and involvement in sports as being amongst the factors that prevented participants against involvement in gang activities. Strategies to strengthen these protective factors and utilise them to design relevant programmes and interventions should now be investigated. Keywords: gangsterism, buffering, buffer, protective factors, community members