Bullying and its consequences: In search of solutions—Part II

Abstract

In Western societies the closing of the twentieth century witnessed sweeping changes across many forms of life – including the Mafia. Within the crime families male dominance continues but with important qualifications. The norm of male authority has been eclipsed by Carmela soprano emerging triumphantly from the loyal maternal role of devotion to her family, church, and her cooking. Behind the glitter of jewels, the clouds of teased-cut hair and frosted nails are smart, savvy, morally conflicted women who are more that tightlipped, emotionally smothered Mamma Coreleones. What transformations are apparent in this new world of post-RICCO crime? Has the erosion of traditional organized crime power provided opportunities for the emergence of a subculture of clever, resourceful women occupying and inhabiting some of the conventional roles in Mafia-type hierarchies? How do these wives, mistresses, mothers and daughters of “made men” in crime organizations actually function? How does the exposure to criminality conspire to attract or repel women caught up in the midst of such activities? Some examples of women immersed in organized crime in the United States and elsewhere will be examined.