Living in the Hood

I think the connotation that someone lives in the "hood" or "ghetto" varies. As the original term is not the same as the modern term. In my region of my state to live in the hood is usually a more depressed area, majority of the residents are minorities, higher numbers of poverty, more criminal activity gang activity, and lower cost housing. I agree though about the ritzy part of town. I worked in a "ritzy" mall that was a straight shot from the hood for a few miles and on a bus line. At the time I worked in a sporting goods store and you'd hear from other employee's that it was our store attracting the elements because we had team apparel and at the time that was a big thing with gangs. However they failed to also realize it was the closest mall and the next closest two closed up.

Heyya missybear! I think that is a really good point. There are ups and downs to anywhere lived and the "hood" has always represented areas where there are crimes. What areas are immune to that anymore? I live in a more of a modest retirement neighborhood. There are apartments a few blocks over that people refer to as the "hood." There really isn't much more crime there than there is anywhere else though.

No, there are very few bad areas in my town. My house is in bad shape. I equate being in poor condition with being in the Hood as well as the amount of crime. I believe the important thing is to make the best of where ever you live and do what you can to keep it safe and attractive.

i always thought the hood was your neighbourhood so everyone lived in the hood. perhaps people who refer to poor areas or slums as hood are simply being prejudiced. i live in a reasonable area with some trouble but if they know you they tend to leave me alone. perhaps i'll buy a baseball cap and wear it back to front and sunglasses with a white baggy tracksuit. oooh! how 1980's!