Criminal organizations have a significant impact on economies, politics, social structures, norms, and community relationships. They infiltrate communities, even at the family level, becoming a daily occurrence for many young Mexicans. Problem: The criminal careers of youth often begin early, involving drug use and sales, although drug sales are just one facet of organized crime's illegal activities. Common crimes are linked to organized crime but are often treated as isolated incidents rather than part of a broader pattern. Background: Much research focuses on risk factors, often stigmatizing youth and pigeonholing poverty as the main cause of their involvement in organized crime. This research delves into the motivations and circumstances driving their participation, recognizing each individual's complexity. Methods: Data collection used the snowball technique, conducting 10 interviews with 7 men and 3 women. Of the men, 6 were in social reintegration, having been released from prison within 6 months, and only one had no prior prison experience. The 3 women had never been incarcerated. Qualitative data from their life stories was analyzed using Atlas.Ti software. Results: This study, using Socioanalysis Theory and a biographical retrospective approach, identified factors leading young people to join organized crime and how they were recruited, identifying gender differences. Overcoming numerous challenges, particularly in gaining access to youth participants and building trust to share their experience of illicit activities. This qualitative study contributes to understanding motivations, circumstances and factors driving organized crime involvement.

Authors:
Teresa Navarrete, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico

About the Presenter(s)
Teresa Navarrete is currently a PhD Candidate in Political and Social Sciences at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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