RT Article T1 Conceptual similarities; distinct difference: exploring ‘the gang’ in mainland China JF The British journal of criminology VO 59 IS 3 SP 614 OP 633 A1 Atkinson-Sheppard, Sally A1 Hayward, Hannah LA English YR 2019 UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1664656278 AB This article discusses the ‘gang’ in Mainland China. By drawing on extensive observation, 99 qualitative interviews with criminal justice practitioners, NGO workers, academics, journalists, diplomats, community members and young people associated with gangs. The article considers the ways in which gangs are conceptualized in mainland China. The article uses the framework of ‘conceptual similarities and distinct difference’ to consider the ways in which Chinese gangs are similar to their counterparts around the world, but also how they differ. The article concludes by reflecting on the implications of this for law, legislation, policy and practice as well as global understandings of gangs and organized crime. K1 Gangs K1 Organized crime K1 Migration K1 China K1 Organisierte Kriminalität K1 Organisiertes Verbrechen DO 10.1093/bjc/azy051