Hassled By Teens
I have lived in the same street all my life and am now alone at 67. It was always a friendly area but it has gone downhill and there is now a gang of teenage girls who hang about near the shop. They shout at me every time I go past – comments about my clothes or me being a crazy cat lady! They are only about 12 or 13, but there are about seven of them and I feel quite intimidated. Please advise me. n this is a real problem and all too common these days. Groups of young people, boys or girls can express their teenage need to show off to each other by picking on people that are different from them. of course they should not be making you feel intimidated. there must be times when they are at school. Can this can be a practical solution? But i think it’d be better not to let them drive you into a new routine. What you wear and do is your concern. they are trying to make fun of you, to see your reaction. Can you manage to ignore them and just have no contact? they are still children, but with changing hormones there is a need to be in a group and to make themselves important. You may recognise them and know their parents. this can be another way to change their behaviour. However, most parents will defend their children and not want to hear any negatives, so it would be wise to be careful. Does your local council have a community worker or similar? Neighbourhood Watch groups can be empowering at times like this. i suggest you join yours. remember, you are an important person and do not have to change your routine because of children.
Neighbourhood Watch can be empowering