Final answer:
Darryl gets into fights in 'The Outsiders' because of his protective nature towards his brothers and the influence of the gang culture amidst socioeconomic struggles.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the book “The Outsiders,” Darryl (Darry) gets into fights despite being older, brighter, and more clean-cut than most others because he feels a strong sense of responsibility and protection towards his younger brothers, especially after their parents' death. This sense of duty, combined with the socioeconomic struggles and the gang culture they are involved in, pushes him to sometimes engage in physical altercations. Darry's situation and behavior reflect the complex dynamics of family loyalty, social environment, and personal choices that the characters in the novel navigate.