Comparative Pathway Case Analysis

Assignment 3: Comparative Pathway Case Analysis Course: Gangs in America (Masters Program) Module: Module 3 Individual Pathways & Gendered Experiences Due Date: See Canvas Points: 100 Assignment Purpose The purpose of this assignment is to examine individual-level pathways into gang involvement through a comparative and gender-informed lens. Students will apply micro-level criminological theories to analyze how developmental, social, and structural factors shape different trajectories into gangs for males and females. This assignment emphasizes critical analysis, theory application, and synthesis, moving beyond generalized explanations of gang involvement. Learning Outcomes Addressed This assignment assesses the following course student learning objectives: Analyze micro-level theories explaining gang involvement Evaluate developmental and life-course pathways into gangs Critique gendered assumptions in gang research and policy Blooms Levels: Analyze, Evaluate, Create Assignment Instructions Write a 45 page analytical paper (not including title or references) that addresses the following components: 1. Case Scenario Selection (Approx. 121 page) Select two contrasting gang involvement pathways, one male and one female. You may choose one of the following options: Option A: Use instructor-provided case scenarios (if available), OR Option B: Develop two realistic, research-informed composite profiles based on course readings (not real individuals). Each case should briefly describe: Age of gang entry Family context Peer influence School experiences Community environment 2. Micro-Level Theory Application (Approx. 1122 pages) Apply at least two micro-level theories discussed in this module, such as: Developmental/life-course theory Social learning theory Control theory Peer influence models For each case: Explain how the selected theories help account for the individuals pathway into gang involvement. Identify key risk and protective factors influencing each trajectory. 3. Gendered Pathway Analysis (Approx. 1112 pages) Compare how gender shapes: Motivations for joining gangs Experiences within gangs Exposure to victimization and control Critically evaluate how traditional gang research and policy often overlook or misinterpret female gang involvement. 4. Implications for Intervention (Approx. 121 page) Discuss how understanding gendered and developmental pathways can inform: Targeted prevention efforts Intervention strategies Trauma-informed responses Propose at least one evidence-based recommendation tailored to each pathway. Source Requirements Required: Howell & Griffiths (2019) Minimum: Two additional peer-reviewed scholarly sources Formatting Requirements Length: 45 pages Font: 12-point Times New Roman Spacing: Double-spaced Margins: 1 inch Citation Style: APA 7th edition File Type: Word (.docx) or PDF Academic Integrity & AI Use All analysis must be original. AI tools may be used only for brainstorming, outlining, or editing. AI-generated content submitted as original work is prohibited. Evaluation Criteria (Summary) Your paper will be evaluated based on: Depth and accuracy of theory application Strength of comparative and gendered analysis Integration of scholarly sources Quality of intervention implications Organization, clarity, and APA formatting A detailed grading rubric is available in Canvas. Submission Instructions Submit your assignment via Canvas Module 3 Assignment 3: Comparative Pathway Case Analysis by the posted deadline. Helpful Tip Strong submissions avoid stereotypes and demonstrate how gender, development, and structure intersect to shape gang pathways.