Providing teen activities would benefit city

Editor’s note: Today’s letters to the editor are from Southwest Junior High students learning about persuasive writing.

To the editor:

The city of Lawrence could decrease the number of teen-related problems by providing more activities for teens. As the New York Times stated, “After being taken into custody, Officer Carey asked the 16 teenagers one question … Why? They all had the same answer, and it was because they had nothing else to do.” I have found that without activities, teens feel a need to create their own fun. For example, teens might go around collecting stop signs, doing drugs, violence and other forms of vandalism.

Maybe putting in a teenage “hang-out,” a place where teens can go to relax would be helpful. But I do not suggest creating more academic and ethical classes. Teens try to avoid these classes and it is probably for the better. When under pressure to not do something, they choose to rebel and do it anyway. “After school activities also help decrease teenage delinquents because directly after school is the number one time to get into trouble,” stated J. Ann Mumford, PhD.

In my research, I found that many teenagers feel lonely, even if they are the most popular student in school. I think one reason is that the city has neglected to recognize teenagers. There are adult, child and family activities, but nothing for teenagers. Will you help the teens of Lawrence?

Mack Mumford,

Southwest Junior High School