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Teens get a bad rap for a lot of things and it’s been that way since probably the beginning of time. I hate teen stereotypes.

See why this woman refused to accept some really disrespectful behavior.

AITA for Calling out littering kids

I was walking home a few weekends ago. It was a glorious day and I was in a fantastic mood.

There were quite a few people walking but specifically there were two young girls (probably around 16) not far in front of me. They seemed nice, giggling, and just having a good time together.

But they weren’t nice at all. I would have never done this as a teen or even as a kid.

As they walked, they were pouring drinks into plastic cups with ice. These bottles were plastic and had screw tops. Once they finished, they simply left the bottles on the side of the path and started walking off. They both had backpacks and Pret paper bags.

This infuriated me. Not only were we in a public space surrounded by bins, but they had the space to store the bottles without it getting in their way.

I basically ran up to them and said “Are you not going to throw your bottles in the bin? You can’t just leave them on the side,” to which they responded “I can’t see a bin anywhere.”

This next part took guts. 16 year olds could easily knock me over, so no thanks.

I didn’t care for this response and replied “That doesn’t matter. You’re old enough to not litter and you both have bags to put the bottles in so I suggest you go and collect your rubbish and throw it in a bin.”

Looking visibly shocked and upset they turned around, collected the bottles and put them in their bags.

As I walked away I started thinking. When I was their age, an encounter like this would have mortified me to the point of completely ruining my day.

So it wasn’t exactly satisfying for her, but I’d be proud. I’m surprised it worked.

Did I handle it a bit too harshly?

Would it have been kinder to have just picked up the bottles and dropped them in a bin myself?

Have I just embarrassed them and ruined their day?

Here is what folks are talking about.

I’ve called out younger kids for playing on other people’s property, but this one would be a safety concern for me.

It’s true! Some lessons aren’t comfortable. I’d be too mortified to try it again.

I agree. Embarrassing people is an underrated strategy.

It’s so bizarre. My sister and I were never like this even as young kids.

If you enjoyed this story, check out this post about a homeowner who doesn’t think their painters should use their water spigot on the job.

It shouldn’t be unexpected. I’ve called out adults, too. Some people need it.

Teens littering make a pathetic excuse for it when called out, but eventually collect their garbage.