Are there enough safe spaces for NYC teens?

Search online for things for teenagers to do in New York, and you’ll find countless lists promising affordable fun. But unless you’re 18 or older, your choices may be limited.

Many NYC teens don’t have safe, affordable, and fun places to hang out. Instead, many go to parks, standing in front of malls, and other gathering spaces. 

From Atlantic Center to Kings Plaza malls, an 18+ rule has been heavily enforced. Due to a rise in fights, crowding, and commotion, these places view teenagers as nuisances. 

“Research shows that social connectedness and belonging play vital roles in promoting positive mental health for teens,” Dr. Katie Hurley, DSW, LCSW, said. “They are considered protective factors. Teens can experience loneliness, lack of connection, and poor mental health when they don’t have access to social relationships within their communities. This can increase feelings of sadness, stress, and even symptoms of depression for some.”

One recent incident that gives an example of teen boredom is the NYPD’s release of aerial drone footage of two teens subway surfing. No arrests have been made but reports indicate the teens face reckless endangerment and criminal trespassing charges. Another is the recent “takeovers” at malls, including one that occurred in February, resulting in 18 arrests.

While teens say they want a space for them to have a good time, many places are created around not wanting the liability of teens vs. trying to work with them and parents to create a better community. 

“These teens don’t know how to have fun,” a phrase that many of the older generations think about teens now, which may be true but requires a nuanced analysis. One critical piece of information that is severely left out is the difference in stimulation then vs. now. Many mid-to-late Gen Z people were born into technology. 

Gen X and Millennials vs. Gen Z and Alpha have distinct differences that are vital to understand before confronting and solving the problems of today. Gen X and Millennials grew up purely on scheduled television and physical forms of media. From PBS to MTV, there was a clean-cut way you’d consume media and in a very controlled amount. Additionally, there weren’t many places that were exclusively 18+.

At Ailbee Square Mall in Brooklyn, teens of any age could enter. It was a fun hangout place that welcomed teens. Compared to now, where these spaces are limited and expensive.

“Much of what happens on screen provides ‘impoverished’ stimulation of the developing brain compared to reality,” according to a study from pediatrician Dr.  Michael Rick. “Children need a diverse menu of online and offline experiences, including the chance to let their minds wander. Boredom is the space in which creativity and imagination happen.” 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health’s New York data sheet, “1 in 9 adolescents aged 12-17 have serious thoughts of suicide each year,” which is fueled by a “1 in 629 ratio of school psychologists to students in New York’s K-12 public schools.”

Most teens say there just isn’t a place catered to them. Somewhere that is asking questions of how to include instead of further isolating.

“Opportunities for social connection, mentoring, and belonging. Teens experience a sense of purpose in these spaces, especially when the spaces are designed with teen input,” said Hurley. “Knowing where to go to find support and connection and having free and easy access to these spaces enables teens to experience community among their peers.”

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