North Carolina Gang Investigators Association 2021 Gang Awareness Guide | Page 11

Other changes to look for

Withdrawing from family activities and planned events.

Changed academic performance or declining school attendance.

Defiant or confrontational behavior, such as talking back, verbal abuse, name-calling, and disrespect for parental authority.

Staying out late without reason.

Unusual desire for secrecy.

Angry outbursts, excessive aggression.

Excessive worry about safety; constantly surveying

surroundings for danger.

Sudden negative attitudes about law enforcement or adults in positions of authority (school officials or teachers).

Change in attitude about school, church, or other normal activities or change in behavior when attending these activities.

Drastic changes in personal style.

Withdrawal from longtime friends and forming bonds with an entirely new group of friends.

Suspected use of drugs, such as alcohol, inhalants, and narcotics.

Possession of firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.

Non-accidental physical injuries (such as evidence of being beaten or injuries to hands and knuckles from fighting).

Unexplained cash or goods, such as clothing, video

games, or jewelry.