Abstract: This study explored the relational experiences of individuals who had exited the gang lifestyle. Specifically, it focused on relationships impacting participants' decisions to make specific key changes in their lives in order to exit. Eight participants were included, all of whom completed the entire research process. In addition to the qualitative semi-structured interview, the Assessment of Self-Description measure (Blatt, Bers, & Schaeffer, 2003) was included as a supplementary measure. Findings demonstrated that multiple relationships influenced decisions to exit the gang lifestyle: (1) a shifting sense of self and personal goals, (2) non-parental family members, (3) participants' own children, and (4) understanding, encouraging and non judgmental post-gang, adult relationships, such as with mentors. In addition to the data relating to the exiting of the gang lifestyle, suggestions were offered by participants on treatment improvements and other effective interventions for those at risk of gang membership or those currently involved in a gang. These suggestions included preventive as well as post-incarceration treatment interventions, not only as beneficial in treating gang members, but also in treating incarcerated individuals in general.