Teens looking to socialize in public spaces this summer are finding that their presence is often viewed negatively. According to urban designers and youth researchers, the decline of shopping malls and affordable hangout spots has resulted in fewer options for teenagers without access to money or transportation.
In response to limited options, teens have organized large gatherings in various cities, referred to as 'teen takeovers.' Some local governments have implemented curfews to restrict minors from gathering in public areas, although research indicates that such measures are ineffective. Additionally, policies prohibiting unaccompanied minors have been criticized by advocates who argue that they unfairly penalize all young people for the actions of a few.
Ayan Chowdhary, a high school senior from North Carolina, shared that while he has not participated in a teen takeover, he spends time at local pickleball courts. He noted that adults often watch them play, and while they occasionally visit the mall, the experience can become monotonous.
Experts point out that many public spaces are not designed with teenagers in mind, and some designs actively discourage their presence. Patsy Eubanks Owens, a landscape architecture expert, mentioned that when she began researching outdoor spaces for adolescents in the mid-1980s, there was little existing research, leading her to collect data herself. She found that many design professionals reported being instructed to exclude teenagers from certain spaces.
Jeffrey Butts, a criminal justice professor, highlighted that vague anti-loitering laws can lead to police targeting teenagers simply for gathering. He emphasized that the interpretation of such behavior can vary significantly based on the individuals involved.
Teens are increasingly questioning the lack of 'third places'—locations for socializing outside of work, school, or home—that previous generations took for granted. Nate Storring, co-executive director of the Project for Public Spaces, noted a rise in inquiries from student newspapers about this issue, with many teens expressing feelings of loneliness and a desire for community spaces.
In a collaborative effort, Storring's organization worked with young people to design 'The Pass' in San Antonio, a renovated underpass featuring basketball courts and seating. Storring emphasized the importance of involving teens in the design process to create vibrant spaces.
Storring concluded by urging communities to engage with teenagers as individuals with valuable ideas, advocating for open dialogue to find solutions together.
