'GangTok': Study provides insights about the presence of gang culture on TikTok

In a new study, a University of Cincinnati sociologist is shedding light on how TikTok content produced by gang members could be used to better inform law enforcement and policymakers for more appropriate action. 

John Leverso, an assistant professor in the UC School of Criminal Justice, published his research in Crime, Media, Culture: An International Journal. 

The study analyzes 397 public TikTok videos associated with Latino gangs in Chicago to address four key areas: the genres of gang-related content; the extent to which these genres are circulated to the public; the perceived authenticity of the posts; and how performances on the tool complicate interpretations of offline identity. 

Three main genres emerged: place-based memorials that document gang geography; traditional “gangbanging” performances that assert identity and provoke rivals; and role-playing simulations of gang life. 

Researchers say these findings add contextual knowledge to the gang-related content practitioners and policymakers might encounter online. This context may help with correct interpretation of what’s happening and designing appropriate responses, instead of overreacting or ignoring what young people post and consume. More broadly, this study suggests that digital environments do not merely reflect gang culture, but also they help it continue.  

Leverso is lead author while other co-authors include Chris Hess, assistant professor at Kennesaw State University; James Densley, professor at Metropolitan State University, and Kristonn Stubbs, a PhD student at the University of Cincinnati.

Journalists interested in speaking with Dr. Leverso for interviews should contact 260-415-8554.