Slang Words Parents Should Know to Protect Their Children
Gangs are recruiting younger than ever. Kids are getting involved without realizing the danger. The Missouri Highway Patrol wants parents to stay aware. They released a list of 28 slang words that could signal gang involvement.
Slang alone doesn’t mean a kid is in trouble. But paired with changes in behavior, it could be a warning sign. If a teen starts dressing differently, avoiding old friends, or acting secretive, parents should pay attention.
Slang Words That Indicate Gang Membership or Initiation
Gangs use coded language. These terms can indicate membership, violence, or drug activity. Parents must learn what these words mean.
- Banger – A gang member
- Banging – Gang activity
- Blessed in – Accepted into a gang
- Popped a cap – Shooting at someone
- Buster – Someone who is not a real gang member
- Cap – A bullet
- CK – Cop killer
- BK – Blood killer
- Colors – Gang-specific clothing
- Down for Mine – Looking out for oneself
- Down with the set – Represents gang turf
- Dressed down – Wearing gang colors
Slang Words That Indicate Violence or Drug Activity
Gang life involves crime, drugs, and violence. These slang terms can suggest dangerous activity. Parents must recognize the warning signs.
- 5-0 – Police
- Gat – Gun
- Jack – Robbery
- Jumped in – Gang initiation beating
- Jumped out – Beating for leaving a gang
- Loc’s – Dark sunglasses worn by gang members
- Put in work – Completing a gang task
- Queen – Female gang member
- Rank out – Denying gang membership when arrested
- Rock it up – Making crack cocaine
- Rolling good – Selling drugs
Slang Words That Show Leadership or Influence in Gangs
Some members rise in rank and give orders. These slang words indicate someone with influence.
- Shot caller – A gang leader who gives orders
- Snow White – Cocaine
- Strapped – Carrying a gun
- Wet em up – Shooting or stabbing someone
Slang Words Are a Warning Sign That Cannot Be Ignored
Slang is just one piece of the puzzle. Parents must look at behavior, attitude, and lifestyle changes. Kids join gangs when they feel lost or disconnected. Schools are failing to keep students engaged. Families must step in before it’s too late.
The government will not fix this problem. Politicians talk but never act. The Missouri Highway Patrol is doing its part. Parents must do the rest.
