Respect Begins with Responsibility

Topic: Nowadays, many young people deliberately damage public places. What are the causes and solutions?

In recent years, there has been an increasing number of cases where young people intentionally damage public places such as parks, bus stops, or playgrounds. This worrying trend not only harms the environment but also reflects deeper social issues. There are several causes behind this behavior, as well as possible solutions to prevent it.

One major reason for this issue is the lack of a sense of belonging and responsibility among young people. Many of them grow up feeling disconnected from their community or environment, and therefore, they do not value public spaces. When people feel that something “does not belong to them,” they are less likely to protect it. Furthermore, some teenagers damage public property as a form of rebellion. They may face problems at home or school, and expressing anger through destruction becomes a way to release their emotions.

Another significant factor is the absence of moral education and community awareness. In many families, children are not taught the importance of respecting shared environments. Schools also often focus heavily on academic success rather than social responsibility. As a result, young people fail to understand that public places are built for everyone’s use and comfort.

To address this issue, both education and communication must play a key role. Schools should include lessons about environmental and civic responsibility, helping students develop empathy and respect for their surroundings. In addition, parents should spend more time teaching values and setting good examples at home. Governments can also contribute by creating community activities that connect young people with their environment, such as cleaning projects or local art initiatives that encourage care rather than destruction.

In conclusion, damaging public places is not just a problem of property, but also of mindset and responsibility. By teaching respect, empathy, and awareness from an early age, we can guide young people toward building—not breaking—the world around them.