Understanding MS

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Understanding MS-13: An Analysis through Social Structure and Social Process Theories Ricci L Dyson College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Grand Canyon University PSY-530: Social and Cultural Psychology Dr. Julienne Long December 5, 2023

Understanding MS-13: An Analysis through Social Structure and Social Process Theories Mara Salvatrucha, commonly known as MS-13, is a notorious transnational criminal gang that originated in Los Angeles, California, during the 1980s. Since its inception, MS-13 has expanded its influence globally, engaging in a wide range of criminal activities such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and acts of extreme violence. This essay aims to delve into the background of MS-13, analyze its activities through the lens of social structure and social process theories, and explore how these theories can help explain the motivations behind the crimes committed by its members. Background of MS-13 MS-13 was formed by Salvadoran immigrants in Los Angeles who faced social marginalization and economic hardships. Over time, the gang evolved into a highly organized criminal enterprise with a hierarchical structure. The gang's activities extended beyond the United States, gaining a foothold in Central America and other regions. MS-13 is notorious for its brutality, utilizing violence as a means of asserting dominance and instilling fear in both rival gangs and the general population (Atwood, 2021). Application of Social Structure or Social Process Theory Both social structure and social process theories offer insights into the formation and actions of MS-13. Social structure theory posits that crime is a result of social and economic inequalities (Schram & Tibbetts, 2019). In the case of MS-13, the theory is applicable as the gang's formation can be linked to the socio-economic challenges faced by Salvadoran immigrants in Los Angeles. The lack of opportunities and discrimination contributed to the creation of an alternative social structure – the gang itself. Social process theory, on the other hand, focuses on how individuals learn criminal behavior through social interactions (Schram

& Tibbetts, 2019). MS-13 members often join the gang during their adolescent years, influenced by peer pressure, a sense of belonging, and a distorted value system. This aligns with social process theory, emphasizing the role of socialization in criminal behavior. Explanation of Crime in MS-13 Social structure and social process theories can be used to explain why MS-13 members commit crimes. The economic disparities and social exclusion faced by the gang's members may push them toward criminal activities as a means of survival and empowerment. Additionally, the socialization within the gang reinforces criminal behavior as members adopt the norms and values perpetuated by MS-13. View of the Case by Social Structure or Social Process Theorists Social structure theorists would argue that addressing the root causes of social and economic inequality is crucial in preventing gang formation and criminal activities. They would emphasize the need for social programs and policies that create equal opportunities for marginalized communities (Tolle, 2017). Social process theorists, on the other hand, would focus on interventions at the individual level, such as rehabilitation programs and mentorship, to steer individuals away from criminal pathways (Schram & Tibbetts, 2019). Significant Studies and Their Application Studies by Robert K. Merton, a social structure theorist, and Edwin H. Sutherland, a social process theorist, are relevant to understanding MS-13. Merton's Strain Theory explains how individuals may turn to crime when they face a disjunction between societal goals and the means available to achieve them. Sutherland's Differential Association Theory posits that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others, particularly in close-knit groups (Schram & Tibbetts, 2019).

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