Young people have dressed differently since the 50's, and young yobs do no more than wear what young non yobs wear. It is called "street culture". Today it is hoodies, in the 70's it was safety pins.
We are building an irrational fear of young people which is becoming a self fulfilling prophecy as it always seems to have done. Speeches about hoodies directed at the Daily Mail reading classes go down well, but do nothing to help with the problem.
Having a "war on hoodies" makes as much sense as "the war on terror" (See my previous article). We need to be more imaginative.
We also need to make sure the Police don't sit around filling in forms until enough pressure builds that they go and apply for an ASBO banning someone from doing something which is illegal, but getting out there and preventing them doing it in the first place, or just arresting them for it when they do.
Where I live, we don't get much youth trouble, it is after all a medium sized village in the country. However, some people do get worried about the "youth". I don't. I wave at them, say hello, generally acknowledge them and give them a bit of respect. They reciprocate that, so I do not get any problems, and if I tell them they are doing something wrong they are more likely to listen.
Respect works both ways.
4 comments:
Do you wave and shout at passing cars as well?
Yes, when I know them. I am always getting waved at by people who I know. Sometimes I get waved at enthusiasticly by someone who I can't quite place as well.
Hello Benedict. I notice you've shown an interest in my blog. Thanks for that! And please note that I'm now showing an interest in yours! Best Wishes.
Many thanks Dave. Best wishes for you also.
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