Across the nation, large groups of teenagers—sometimes numbering in the dozens or even hundreds—are causing disruptions in shopping centers, public pools, and various communal areas. These disturbances occasionally result in arrests due to violent conduct and lead to bans from certain establishments.

During the Independence Day weekend, an incident in Illinois saw hundreds of teens converging on a local pool, creating disturbances for families and engaging in unlawful activities, which resulted in the arrest of one person.

The Glen Ellyn Police Department reported being summoned to the local park district pool around 5 p.m. on July 5, following reports of “a growing crowd of teenagers and young adults” that eventually swelled to around 200 to 300 people, as detailed in a media statement.

The use of social media also plays a unique role in not only allowing teens to organize quickly, but encouraging them to act out for online validation, according to Alpert. 

“Social media has only made it worse,” Alpert said. “These gatherings aren’t spontaneous. They’re staged for likes, shares and clout. The behavior escalates because there are no real consequences.”

The licensed psychotherapist implores parents, law enforcement and businesses to work together to reach a solution regarding not only holding children accountable, but keeping them safe. 

“Businesses and communities must crack down with clear, consistent enforcement,” Alpert said. “But let’s not pretend this is just a policing issue. It’s a parenting issue. It’s a cultural issue. And unless adults step up and model respect for rules and shared spaces, we’ll keep seeing teens treating public areas like their personal playgrounds.”