Brief Summary Of Human Targets By Victor Rios

The author Victor Rios explains his youth. He and his friend Conejo had a business to make money. Rios was 15 and Conejo was in his early 20’s. The product they sold was heroin in balloons. This is a dangerous way to earn money but they justified why they decided to sell this. Rios had his time selling drugs and in street life. At the same time he was in the food business and a mechanic. Rios explored academia and was able to get an education and leave the street life behind. Rios book ‘Human Targets” examines how the youth and authority figures interact. There are interesting views from Rios and his participants. Rios discusses his findings after conducting quantitative research at Punta Vista School, CA. The main objective of Punta Vista

Wherever Latino youth are present the police constantly harasses them. The youth found safe haven in Golden State Liquor. The liquor store was a place where locals would go specifically the youth. The owner however had a close relationship with the local youth. Abjit allowed loitering around his store and would often have conversations with the youth. This is interesting because usually storeowners avoid interacting with “criminals.” Abjit showed trust and respect and they, which resonates with the youth. Rios discusses how the police approach the youth. The youth can often predict situations. For instance, when officers approach them they already know what they want. Mark states, “No need to fake it officer. You don’t like me, I don’t like you … just search me and get it over with.” Rios concludes with account of Tonyo. He was arrested for selling drugs and was forced to take a plea deal. He served his time and tried to turn his life around. Unfortunately, Tonya was a witness to assault and is serving a 16-year sentence. An interesting point Rios raises is that Tonyo’s parole officer did not even acknowledge his attempts to better his

Mano suave is soft hand and mano suave is hard hand. These terms describe a type of policing. Mano suave is more easy going and brief type of encounter. Mano dura is a more strict and thorough encounter. Officers use this to determine how they threat each person they encounter. Mano suave is the preferred way of policing because it is a polite way of enforcing the law. There are benefits of this type of policing. A benefit can be gaining respect from the community the officer serves. Unfortunately, mano dura is practiced more. Officers display dominance and the power that comes with the job makes it difficult to display politeness. Another point that Rios examines is youth experience of illegality. Immigrant youth join gangs for the intent of acceptance. The stigmatization of immigrants can have a negative impact, which can lead to high levels of