On what basis do some STGs organize themselves?

Some street gangs organize themselves primarily based on tenure, which reflects the duration of a member's involvement with the gang. Tenure can establish hierarchy within the gang, as longer-term members often hold more influence and leadership roles. This structure allows for the development of trust and loyalty among members, as those with more experience are seen as more knowledgeable about the gang’s culture, operations, and the social dynamics at play.

In contrast, financial contributions, size of the gang, and public reputation may also play roles in gang dynamics, but they are typically secondary to the influence of tenure. Financial contributions can affect a gang's resources or power, but they do not inherently determine one's standing within the gang. Similarly, while the size of the gang can impact its activities and reach, it does not dictate how members relate to each other in terms of respect and authority. Public reputation may influence a gang's perception in the community, but it is primarily the established relationships formed over time that drive internal organization and loyalty.