Annenberg Classroom - Speak Outs - Flash Mobs: From urban fracas to policy game changers

Speak Outs

Speak Out

Flash Mobs: From urban fracas to policy game changers

Imagine sitting on a park bench in your favorite park, or shopping in a department store. Suddenly, a mass of people descend, causing havoc and damaging property. You might be scratching your head and wondering what just happened, but don’t worry. The phenomenon has a name: It’s called a flash mob.

Flash mobs started out peacefully about seven years ago as fun social experiments – often including street art, impromptu performances by bands or theater troupes. Sometimes they can be silly – pillow fights or silent iPod dance parties, for example – or they can be a marketing ploy to hype up a new product for the key teenage demographic.

Recently though, they have turned violent throughout the United States, from large cities like Philadelphia, Boston, New York to smaller urban cities like Chattanooga, TN and South Orange, NJ.

Philadelphia has witnessed four flash mobs in the past several months that have resulted in assaults and property damage. And unfortunately for you, the mobs were mainly high-school age students, leading to hysteria about high schoolers running amok and frightening people (because nothing freaks out parents and the authorities more than a mob of uncontrollable teenagers). But what causes this phenomenon?

Temple University psychologist Frank Farley says that a mixture of boredom, nice weather, and constant access to social networking technology has allowed these events to happen so quickly. “Some of the factors motivating it are thrill seeking, rule breaking and simply the fun of an unpredictable large group social experience,” says Farley. “The danger lies in that very unpredictability, when large numbers of people congregate with no clear agenda, and bad behavior or extreme behavior is initiated by some, and ’social facilitation’ and ‘emotional contagion’ might help spread the bad behavior in threatening or criminal directions.”

But large groups of teenagers don’t have to be a cause for alarm. In response to the Philadelphia flash mobs, about 100 students converged in a city park for a peaceful protest. They assembled quietly wearing shirts that read, “organizers,” “leaders,” “artists” and “innovators.” West Philadelphia High student Justin Carter said to the Philadelphia Daily News, “I believe we're painted in a negative light. We're seen as rather violent at this point because of a few violent youths. We're here to reclaim how people view us in society.”

And flash mobs don’t have to be in response to anything bad. Students and organizers all over the country have created positive flash mobs. One mob in Jacksonville, Fla., raised awareness and collected money and clothing for “One Million Shirts”, an organization that aims to relieve clothing shortages in African countries, with a sudden, choreographed dance routine.

Carrotmob, an online network with local chapters throughout the nation, has organized several flash mob events where large groups buy from stores that have pledged to increase their use of renewable energies or other environmental actions. You can see their idea in action by watching their video.

What do you think?

What would you say to a friend who participated in a violent flash mob? Do you see large groups of teens as something to fear, or can they be something positive? Join the discussion and let us know what you think!

Join the Discussion

Your First Name:
Your Teacher/School:
Your City/State:
Your Comment: limited to 2000 characters including spaces

Thank you for commenting.
Your comment is awaiting approval.
Click here to view all Speak Outs

Comments

6/1/2010

Joji
Nimitz High School, Irving/TX
Flash mobs can be easily created with the plethora of social networking sites such as: facebook, twitter, myspace, etc. But because of the violent rampages done by the teenagers, it gives flash mobs and teenagers a bad rap. Those that participate in the violent flash mobs are being stupid and most probably are trying to be attention seekers. But if teenagers were to participate in more beneficial flash mobs, citizens would not fear the congregating of multiple teenagers. To prevent violent flash mobs from occurring, other teenagers should tell the soon to be participants of the violent flash mobs to correct their behavior.

5/31/2010

duc c
nimitz, tx
Flash mobs have no right to exist. They only create havoc and damage --and all for what? A few laughs and chuckles? Nay, I do not believe in the justifications for these antics. It does not surprise me that more and more teenagers are taking part in these mobs. Today's youth is unguided and lack basic values: patriotism, loyalty, and religious values. We see more and more kids each and every day taking part in smoking weed, doing drugs, and texting while driving. If it were up to me, flash mobs would be illegal because flash mobs, like many other tomfooleries that these kids participate in do not contribute to society, yet put lives in harm and damages countless properties. There should be a large legal repercussion for such antics! You hooligans, 'git off my lawn!

5/31/2010

Nabila
Nimitz High School, Irving, TX
To a friend who has participated in a violent flash mob, I would ask of the reason for his or her stupidity. To gather aimlessly just for the thrill of it is one thing, but to add violence into such a situation is absolutely pointless. The individuals who do partake in such vehement activities should be punished, but should not represent the collective mass of teenagers, as that would be stereotyping. Teenagers are capable of initiating great movements and should use this potential to make flash mobs uplifting, whatever the cause may be, not feared. The peaceful flash mobs of seven years prior should be the kind we still see today: well informed individuals having fun or raising awareness for a cause, harmlessly.

5/31/2010

Bryan
Nimitz HS, Irving, TX
Flash mobs can be dangerous, but they can also be helpful. I believe for the most part that flash mobs are a good thing as long as they do not turn violent. A large group of teenager is nothing to be afraid of. Just because a few reckless hoodlums gives the world a bad connotation about teenagers doesn’t mean they are all like that. Any group could be destructive. So why aren’t people scared about a large group of adults?

5/27/2010

Ana I.
Nimtz HS, Irving, TX
Like everything else in the world, flash mobs can be good or bad. Choreographed events that send out positive messages or are aimed at helping organizations and which have been cleared by the proper authorities aren't negative and can actually be quite enjoyable. I've seen videos on YouTube of such instances and they're definitely an interesting way of causing hype or getting people interested in what you're trying to promote. Violent, teenage mobs, on the other hand, are events that I do not condone. These mobs should be dealt with by the proper authorities and the people involved, if they do destory property or cause havoc, should be charged for their actions.

5/27/2010

Casey
Nimitz High School, Irving,TX
I believe these flash mobs are very good for the young as long as they do not turn extremely violent. These acts of quick assembly can bring our youth into the politics of our time. I also thought that we are not supposed care what other people think about who we are or what we do. If the young mobs are disruptive, they are no different than any other age acting out for their own convictions. I have seen many old and young act a fool when it comes to politics.

5/26/2010

Thomas
Nimitz HS, Irving, Tx
If a friend of mine participated in a flash mob then I would probably give them some lecture about how they are ruining teenagers reputation in the publics eyes, but as far as whether these flash mobs should be feared or viewed as a positive force it really depends on the effect that they are having on the nation as a whole. If flash mobs are to be accepted then it is up to teens to try and prevent these violent mobs and support or join the flash mobs that improve society. But in my opinion these flash mobs are all in all a positive force in society and should be commended.

5/26/2010

Telma
Nimitz High School, Irving, TX
I would ask a participant in a violent flash mob if the mob's actions hurt or helped their cause. And ask why the violence came about. I don't think we should fear large groups of teens simply because of special cases that give bad examples of who we are to society. The large gatherings of teens can transmit positive messages. For example, large groups of teens might represent an art expression or simply a show to the world of what is on their minds. It is only when violence takes over any gathering that a positive message is no longer heard.

5/25/2010

Rosaura V
NImitz High School, Irving, TX
If a friend participated in a violent flash mob, I would ask why? Not because I don't know the answer (I was bored or everybody else was doing it), but because hopefully they will realize by my face expression that what they did was retarded, and without any purpose. As a friend I would advice them to not do it and remind them that that's the reason why we are treated as children and ignored. Other than that the decision to join violent flash mobs is theirs, not mine. However, a large group of teenagers is not something to immediately fear or worry about, because it can be for a positive cause. We are after all the future of tomorrow. As the examples provided in the article, teenagers can do great things together. At our school our Student Council has managed to participate in various activities that not only benefit our school, but our community and those in need. For example, they helped raised money for Haiti and involved the school in a fundraiser to allocate funds for leukemia research and patients. Even when Martin Luther King, Jr. was a teenager he managed to have nonviolent protests and marches. Therefore, the few violent flash mobs shouldn't overshadow the positive flash mobs.

5/25/2010

Ernesto
Nimitz High School, Irving/Tx
I dont believe that a large mob of teens is something to fear. Like this article showed, teens can have both a positive or negative effect on a community. It all depends on what their intentions really are. What todays youth needs are direction and guidence. Ofcourse they are gonna have so much energy, they are young, but what they need is a positive output for that energy. If i had a friend that had participated in a flash mob, I would suggest for him to join some sort of sport to realease all that built up energy and anger.

5/25/2010

Mauricio V.
Nimitz HS, Irving/TX
Teenagers involved in violent flash mobs are just causing a bad name for all teenagers. A bad reputation would then lead to more rules and regulations pinning down teenagers. Flash mobs should be used to brighten someone’s day up or for a good cause, not for disruption and unlawfulness. Teenagers might be using flash mobs because it might be the only way they can be heard. Adults usually just ignore the opinions of teenagers so a creative outlet will help them be heard. If teenagers are strong about a subject a unified front will create a huge impact.

5/25/2010

Genesis
Nimitz High School, Irving, TX
When making any type of decision, one should be informed and well aware of what one is participating in. Unfortunately, many teenagers do not take this to heart, and the few belligerent teenagers that participate in flash mobs (or any type of event of the sort) ruin the positive impact that a peaceful flashmob may have attempted to have. It can happen to all good-intended protests, organizations, or group events. Just as teenagers attempt to do some good for themselves, their schools, and the community or world at large, there are some teenagers who simply don't. However, adults and the public shouldn't fear a large group of teenagers just because they think they should. They also have a responsibility to be informed about what those teenagers are really up to. There have been many instance where adults simply assume that teenagers are going to be out of hand, and if you assume wrongly, then obviously those teenagers aren't going to react well. So, for the sake of good intentions and good ideas, both adults and teenagers should be informed about flash mobs, what type of information they're trying to disseminate, and be willing to give each other a fair chance. Flash mobs can be bad, but they don't have to be, especially if everyone remains fair, accepting, and non-violent.

5/24/2010

Silvana T
Nimitz HS, Irving/Tx
Run. Don’t walk from the MOB: a worthy tagline for a 50’s horror movie. Inspiring mass hysteria and the crying of small children, the “flash mob”- an unsightly group of thrill seeking teenagers, possibly resulting in havoc, violence, and property damage- is legitimate cause for alarm. That teenagers inspire fear just sounds so very ridiculous to me. However, were a large mass of unruly young people to descend upon me, I retain the ability to revise my opinion. I agree with Temple University psychologist Frank Farley that the unpredictability of large numbers of people is frightening, my grasp of high school psychology being sufficient enough to allow me understanding of the phenomenon and dangers of social facilitation. However I also know that flash mobs, when executed peacefully and with purpose, can lead to very positive outcomes.

5/24/2010

Minh
Nimitz High School, Irving/Texas
To a friend who participated in a violent flash mob: he or she is a friend no more. Ignorance, arrogance, and violence are never the answer, and a group’s potential to polarize these awful ideas does not glorify violent flash mobs. The KKK, the more horrible side of the Sons of Liberty: many mobs throughout history have proven how digressive we become when grouped together. Teens aren’t just the only ones to fear, though we tend to do things out of spite and ignorance perpetuated by sheer boredom. Education and true passion is to be encouraged in today’s youth, and with many nonviolent flash mobs young people are forming to raise money for different causes in today’s society, I think we stay have the potential to succeed. Large groups of people can achieve great things, when led by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, who put humanity, decency, love, and respect before everything else. We need to look to them to form the more passionate, righteous flash mobs.

5/24/2010

Chris R.
Nimitz HS, Irving, TX
I find it altogether depressing on both fronts. First, that adults are still convinced that the vast majority of teenagers are gang members and thugs is quite frustrating. I do not know anyone personally who has engaged in a flash mob, violent or otherwise. If they were engaged in one that turned violent, like the ones in Philadelphia, Boston, and New York, I would strongly oppose it. I realize that I am not a proper judge of the overall teenage demographic, and that the people I know through school may only be the small, well-behaved minority. That said, I do not believe that this is the case. There are also flash mobs that are peaceful and accomplish great things, like the one for One Million Shirts. What I find almost more depressing is that groups of teenagers are getting together and proving the adults' worst fears to be a reality, getting together to damage property and scare the local populace. We are already walking a thin tightrope, trying to prove that the next generation is not replete with heathens whose sole desire is to run amok and destroy any vestiges of public sanity. Don't make it more difficult for us to do so than it already is. Of the adults who are intensely fearful of all teenagers due to a few groups who revel in inducing mass hysteria, I beg tolerance and an attempt to realize that we aren't all violent and destructive. Of the teenagers who are violent and destructive, I beg for an immediate cessation of hostilities and flash destruction. This is a two-way street, and we need to work together if we're ever going to coexist peacefully.

5/23/2010

Jayson
Northeast High School-2nd Period Mr. Frank, Philadelphia, PA
I do not think that any of my friends would be crazy enough to do something like this. If any of them were to do this, I would would ask them what they got out of that and do the feel like it made any sense. Flash mobs were originally created for a cause, now teenagers are turning it into something chaotic. I do not think that a group of teenagers is something to fear, there are a few bad apples that make the rest look just as bad as them. These flash mobs are clearly a problem in the city of philadelphia and some of these teens need to be controlled at social events.

5/23/2010

Duoc
Nimitz, Irving/TX
If I had a friend who participated in a violent flash mob, I would remind them of what could have gone wrong. There are many things that could go wrong, such as the mob turns into a big fight fest or the police begins to get involved to stop the flash mob. I believe that a flash mob of teens could be positive if it was organized to help benefit others, like the mob in Jacksonville to collect shirts and money for “One Million Shirts”. There is still always chance that one person in the mob could start something violent, so there is a bit of fear for a mob of teens.

5/23/2010

Nicholas M.
Northeast higg, Philadelphia
Flash mobs are big in philly and have hit the new very much. its been an on going thing and its not goo that this is happening in the city. kids going around and just annoying people on wat use to be a farly good area called south street. south street has become one of the most big popular spots in philly and is a night time hang out but ever since the flash mobs started its been dangerous going there. wat they need to do is bump up the police force and get these kids who dont know how to act in jail.

5/23/2010

Ana A
Nimitz High School, Irving/Texas
If one of my friends was to participate in a violent flash mob I would not judge him/her for such action, I am just another human in this universe, I have no right to judge someone for what they do. Every individual is responsible for their actions, if they decide they want to part of a violent flash mob they can be part of it, but they should be aware of the possible consequences. As a good friend I would only ask him/her why he/she did it, and I would tell him/her of the negative aspects a flash mob I think it has, but other than that I would not judge him. Of course a large group of teens can be seen as something to fear, but not only teens can be seen as something to fear there other groups that can be seen like that too. Because today many teenagers are most known for the bad actions they commit our society most of the time see teens as something to fear when they see them in large groups. Although teens are seen that way, there are some occasions that large groups of teens gather together for a good purpose, positive cause, but not everyone gets knowledge of these good actions teens do. Violent flash mobs are ruining the reputation of the good mobs that other groups organize, such as collecting money for an organization, and many others. My point is violent mobs only destroy people and hurts innocent people. Mobs should only be created for positive purposes, like helping the community and less fortunate people. Violent flash mobs do not promote something good to the world in only brings violence and destruction.

5/23/2010

Francisco
Nimitz High School, Irving,TX
If one of my friends would of participated in a violent flash mob I would tell that there is no need for violence. Do it in a nonviolent way you can accomplish much more without violent and people might actually listen to you rather then they thinking bad about your flash mob. Large groups of teens can be frightening to some people but if they show no violence then then can be very positive.

5/23/2010

Milton C
Nimitz High School, Irving, Texas
Well I probably just wouldn't talk to them for some time. And if I did I would ask them why they decide to take such actions. I mean I know hanging out with your friends and just doing random stuff could be fun. But I just don't get how come no one in the crowd stop and thought for a minute and realize that what they were doing is wrong. And that someone could actually get hurt. But I don't think that large groups of teenagers have to be feared because of the actions of other few teens. In contrary people should see teens as the next generation of doctors, teachers, engineers, lawyers. And not just as uncontrollable idiots. But unfortunately teenagers have to fight thru these social stereotypes to gain that level of respect. Which I don't blame the older members of society because they have been around some time and some of them have already done what I dream to do. And to be honest when I go to the mall or other places, and see teens doing crazy things, I also think they are destructive based on their actions. So it all basically comes down to the actions teenagers do that “classifies” us on how other members of society see us as.

5/23/2010

Amanda
Nimitz High School, Irving Tx
If I had a friend that was in a flash mob, I would tell them that I support them. As long as there is a good reason and non violent. If they participated in a violent flash mob, I would disagree completely. I like the idea of using the flash mobs as fundraisers or raising awareness. In my opinion, if the teens are apart of a violent flash mob, they are to be feared. Not only are their minds impressionable, they like to try new things. Well, most of them. If it is a non violent one, I think that they are positive. Teens usually have something to say, and they just want to be heard. I believe that when they are not heard, in most cases, that is when it turns violent.

5/21/2010

Edgar I
Nimitz High School, Irving, Texas
Any friend of mine would not participate in such an event, but if it were to happen, I would question our friendship to him and whether he was sane or not. The concept of a flash mob does bring their subject to attention, but only in a negative light. Teenagers can congregate in a group, protected by our First Amendment right, but we cannot reek havoc and cause damage to any public place or private because it is against the law. Peaceful protests are the way to go, as other peaceful leaders such Ghandi and Martin Luther King Jr., set their examples before us. It is up to the teenagers to separate themselves from the stereotypical teenager, only set to cause destruction.

5/21/2010

Stacie
Nimitz High School, Irving, Tx
Even though flash mobs have had positive effects, there is still always the possibility of an immature doofus running around trying to ruin everything. Alarm would be caused if I saw one or two people trying to defile something or start an uproar. All it takes for there to be some damage caused is someone to lead and others to follow. The type of kids that would do that don't respect the property of others. With that in mind, I don't think people should fear teenagers. Every teenager isn't like that. If I had a friend that was involved in a violent flash mob, I would tell them that what they did was stupid and immature and that I don't want to have anything to do with them. I think that using violence in a participation that is supposed to be nonviolent is very demeaning.

5/21/2010

Justin A
northeast, philadelphia
flash mobs are not our most serous problem but deffinetly one we should take note to while the safe ones are just forms of expression and have no harm dont the volient ones need to stop, not only are they dangerous but they cause a lot of property damage and money for the city.I feel anyone who is caught participating in one of these violent flash mobs serous conciquences should be set in place

5/21/2010

Raymond P.
Northeast High School, Philadelphia, PA
If I had a friend who participated in a flash mob, how I would react to it would depend on my friend's motivations, as well as whether or not the flash mob was positive. If the flash mob had assembled to achieve a noble endeavor, I wouldn't react with too much enthusiasm and would actually probably compliment him for participating. If it were negative, however, I would be very disappointed with my friend for being peer-pressured into being part of something that they should know better not to be part of. I agree with the article in that flash mobs can be caused by boredom amongst teens, but that they also can be beneficial. Flash mobs are so easy to organize today because of the prevalence of social networking among teens. I think one of the appeals of participating is the feeling of being in a group of people who are trying to achieve a common goal, be it noble or otherwise. I personally would not take part in a flash mob regardless of what it's intentions are. I am not a social person by nature and am highly resistant to peer pressure. If I learned that one of my friends was planning on participating in a negative or violent gathering, I would advise them against doing so, but wouldn't do much else to stop them.

5/21/2010

Glenn R.
Northeast High Mr. Frank P2, Philadelphia, PA
Having known of only the more light-hearted iteration prior, I myself wonder at their causes. Perhaps it could be that a few violent individuals from normal flash-mobs tried to adapt them to fit their tendency towards violence more. As well, this sounds not unlike typical hysteria over what would be called Gang Violence: groups of teens causing damage for damages sake. Would that make this a new name/form of a previous establishment? One can only ponder.

5/21/2010

Jocelyn
Nimitz, Irving/Texas
I would tell my friend that he/she are not the smartest student in our school and then ask him/she why are they making us, teenagers, look bad in front of the whole nation. I've seen large groups of teens at the mall, but honestly never saw them as a danger. I did not seem them as a danger, because I would think the security at the mall had a close eye on them for being such a large group of teenagers. I do admit that been surrounded by a big group of teenagers can be dangerous. As a teenager we have the mentality that we can never get introuble or get caught doing bad thing. So, we start making bets or dares to other students to do dumb actions that they would not do if they were by themselves, but are deciding to do this one time because they are surrounded by friends. Doing these bets or dares can have a negative impact. I do believe that flash mobs can make a difference if they have that motivation to help others or do good things. If there where only flash mobs all over the U.S. willing to do only good things for our society we would be a united country.

5/20/2010

Edgar N.
Nimitz High School, Irving, Texas
I would not say anything to a friend who participated in a violent flash mob. I believe it’s up to each individual to decide how to live his or her own life, and it is not my place to interfere unless it’s a life or death situation. That being said, I disapprove of violent flash mobs because it shows a lack of innovation and character. Any man can easily become violent and be cast aside as a rebel that just causes problems. It takes a great deal to think of a creative way to get attention for a particular issue in a nonviolent way. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., though not a prominent example in terms of “flash mobs,” is a prime example of a man using nonviolent methods to attract attention to important issues. The violent flash mobs have diluted the power of the flash mobs with good intentions at heart, the flash mobs who don’t resort to violence and instead use their creativity to capture the attention of the masses. Sure, large groups of teenagers can be something to fear, but large groups of adults can be seen in the same manner. Flash mobs can be a positive thing, and letting teenagers become involved in large groups that advance ignored and important issues is the first step in getting teenagers involved in the political process, stemming the flow of political apathy and immaturity. At any rate, these violent flash mobs are not sanctioned and protected by our Bill of Rights, and though they are hard to detect because of the power of social networking sites, something can be and should be done about this type of congregation. Peaceful flash mobs are a great way to show that not all teenagers are violent buffoons that can’t organize a nonviolent protest or congregation. It’s not like nonviolent protest has not worked in the past.

5/20/2010

Ashley B.
Northeast pd 5 Mr Frank, Philadelphia, Pa
I honestly think flash mobs don't start out with the intent to hurt. At least not the first one. It's actually fun to be with a lot of people because there's so much going on that you never get bored. However, there are a lot of jerks who like attention and the only way they know to get it is to do something bad. that's when the flash mobs start out violent.The ones in Philadelphia were ridiculous and caused by kids who have nothing better to do. Flash mobs aren't always bad, and they existed way before these flash mobs. I think these flash mobs reflect what our city is truly becoming. Disgusting.

5/20/2010

andrae
northeast highschool. pd 5 mr. frank, phila pa
I believe the flash mobs are a call for attention. These are children who think its funny to tear apart a store but dont realize that they are brining trouble for themselves. Adults begin to look at all children as trouble makers and problems. Honestly i believe the reason adults are fairly rude to children is because they see us doing wild things and figure we all are the same. Its unfair but so true. I would like to see my generation take a strong stand against these types of things.

5/20/2010

Nhan V
Northeast High - 7th period , Philadelphia, Pa
Whoever created or started this thing call the “flash mob” is very inconsiderate and endanger other people lives. They simply need to get a life and find something else to amuse them. In the time of the recession, we really don’t need more of these childish problems. Teenagers that are involve in the flash mob because they want attention and be part of something that is hype and full of commotion. There is also other that also at the scene just to see what all the commotion is about is. Flash mobs will make pre-teens and teenagers look bad which will result in difficulty getting a job because the employer is going to think that the individual is not mature enough and violent. Flash mobs gotta have to stop or else this city will be ruin and there will be no such thing as a safe place in Philadelphia.

5/18/2010

Christopher R 2nd
Northeast High, Phila PA
I think flash mobs are a serious problem. Flash mobs can be harmful to the public people as well as businesses. I think they are caused by immature kids who need attention and have nothing more to do than reek havoc on the community.

5/17/2010

jorge A
northeast high school, philadelphia pa
i believe flash mobs are becoming a concern because these mobs pop up randomaly and can damage any thing uin there way. the rise of flash mobs in philadelphia in a concern of mine and many others because it not only damages our city and fine art in it but also gives us a bad name. but as long as the proper percausions are taken i believe these can be prevented. some things they can do is if they see a large group gathering randomally they can keep an close eye on them. flash mobs are a big problem in philadelphia but if handled rite they can be kept under controle

5/17/2010

Wade K
Northeast high school , Philadelphia/ PA
I think flash mobs are a huge deal that need to be taken care of. It's bad enough that people are having economic troubles, but now they are scared to walk around in their own neighborhood. The police must put a stop to this and insure people their saftey.

5/17/2010

Chilon
Northeast High School, Philadelphia, Pa
In my opinion these flash mobs are getting out of hand. For people to go out and do property damage and assult people are sick and bored. Tennagers who cause this should be servely punished. A situation like this cannot be handled lightly. Authorities should lock these children up and make them understand that what their doing isn't right. People should gain control of the situation because is only gives them the right to keep proceeding with these activities that are clearly wrong.It makes our city look like we have no control over our youth and we let them get away with a serious situation.

5/17/2010

Christopher B
Northeast High School, Philadelphia/PA
Thinking about flash mobs just makes me mad for the simple fact half the people that get harmed by the flash mob were innocent and just enjoying there day when a group of kids had to mess it up. They serve no purpose but to destroy the things others worked hard to get or make. Instead of using there time to better themselves they choose to harm others and to think this is our next generation.

5/17/2010

Bryanerick
Northeast High School PD5, Philadelphia PA
I believe that are starting to become a concern, because in the havoc and chaos caused by non positive flash mob, can potentially injure someone or cause vandalism. Im also tired of these flash mobs because of them people will start thinking badly of teenagers. Also parents should help with controlling these flash mobs by knowing where you children are at.

5/17/2010

Merrin pd.7
Northeast High School, Philadelphia, PA
When I read about these flash mobs, one question that kept coming to my mind was, don't these teenagers have anything better to do? They are taking something that was once positive and turned it into something totally negative and horrible. I feel like there are so much other things these teenagers could do with their time instead of going around attacking people and their property. Our cities and streets have enough violence and danger that I don't think added what these flash mobs are doing is going to make it any better. Since it is and could get out of hand I would want someone to do something to put an end to it. I believe that if we can prevent this from happening our homes and towns will be a bit more safer to live in.

5/16/2010

Shequia R.
Notheast High pd 2, Philadelphia PA
Is it really that serious? I believe that they are making something bigger then what it needs to be. A "flash mob" as was shown in the article can be use for good but assaults and damaging thing sounds more like a gang group then a flash mob. It has really been over thought. I watch the news every night and every night at 10 o'clock they say "it's 10 o'clock do you know where your children are?" Parents if your so worried get control of your kids but other than that there is really nothing to be said. ITS NOT THAT SERIOUS.

5/16/2010

Vita A.
Nimitz High School, Irving, Tx
I would hope to never surround myself around the type of people who would participate in a violent flash mob, however, we never truly know our friends 100 % . If I were to be invited by a friend to a violent flash mob I would without a doubt refute to join in. Teenagers have it hard enough without these violent events being viewed as decent people. Our image is easily defamed the moment one senseless teenager decides to behave like a scoundrel. Teenagers especially violent ones involved in a mob is something to fear, these teenagers can at times run on a high without thinking of consequences and inadvertently create havoc. However, when teenager do get together and are involved in an intellectual and peaceful group they create ideas and plans that end up being amazing. There is unfortunately two extremes with these mobs and in a way if you want to end one of the extremes you end up removing the other. It has to be decided whether the good out weighs the bad. Hopefully these violent mobs of teenagers will end, not only so that the damage done to others will end but so that the misrepresentation of teenagers will end as well.

5/14/2010

Kareem M.
Northeast High, Philadelphia Pa
In my opinion I dont think that these "FLASH MOBS" are such a big deal!!! I do understand that they can sometimes get out of hand, but most of the time its about people getting together to do something silly. they arent starting riots or anything, and teens are definately not uncontrollable they just do things outragous and try to have fun. Parents and authorities overthink this situatiom way too much. people think that since there is so many people in one place all at once that they wont be able to gain control of the situation, which is understandable. I say just let kids be kids, its just harmless fun. Honestly i think an ipod dance party sounds pretty cool! where they do that at?

5/14/2010

Aaron O.
Northeast High School, Philadelphia/PA
I really dislike this whole Flash Mob thing because it's ridiculous and makes our city look horrible. I have no idea why these teenagers today do such harmful things to innocent people who don't bother them at all. What makes you want to walk around with a group of friends and randomly start beating people up and ruining property? Think before you act because I know for a fact that the kids who are doing these horrible things will regret it later in life. Because of these flash mobs, people are afraid to go out to certain places because they might be lurking and just looking for trouble. The crazy teenagers see it as fun but it there's nothing fun or funny about harming others and destroying property. Flash Mobs used to be fun and silly, but positive. Why have they turned negative? Why do the kids do what they do and cause scenes everywhere? This needs to stop and it needs to stop NOW! A piece of advice for everyone is to just watch your back wherever you go because you never know when a flash mob will come and try to harm you.

5/13/2010

Issa A. Pd. 4 Frank
Northeast, Philadelphia Pa
Growing up people always wonder what is their purpose. I believe teen years are the main years that these thoughts cross minds and people don't know how to handle them. So they have the urge that they have to belong to something. Thats how gangs and other things form. These small minority of teens probably feel this is their way to feel that they belong to something or have a purpose. Even though its horrible, they may just have that feeling that they belong by forming these groups and causing problems.

5/13/2010

Frankie S
Northeast High School, Philadelphia PA
Personally I feel that teenagers don't know how to act anymore. everyday there's a new story about a crime being committed by a teenager or young adult. Flash Mobs were created just for fun until someone took it too far. In situations like these you can only go so far with punishing the kids, and then it falls back onto the parents. The ones who are responsible for their children's behavior. I feel as if all of the younger generations now are getting bad reps because of certain people making bad decisions like beating up people on South Street or anywhere else it happened. People need to realize that not everything in life is all fun and games. The innocent teenagers shouldn't have to suffer due to ones ignorance and lack of self control. If things continue the way they are now, sooner or later racial discrimination will be brought into it which doesn't do anything but make every situation worse.

5/13/2010

mikal r
northeast high school, philadelphia pa
Flash Mobs are just a bunch of rteens who have nothing to do. Like anything else in this city it will pass in be over. people for some reason seek attention by doing things they will later regret in life. This opnly makes the city of philadelphia get a bad rep and continue the negative talk about the city.Hopefully the media attention flash mobbing is getting will stop kids from doing ikt. positve flash mobs should take place to take off the attention of the bad. i just dont feel safe going out on a late night any more. this needs to end

5/12/2010

Stefanie R.
NEHS, Philadelphia, PA
I think that the media needs to talk more about these peaceful protests and less about flash mobs. I didn't even know about the peaceful protest but I hear about flash mobs five times a day. There are many more teenagers that are interested in peaceful protests, than there are teens that are interested in property damage. Basically, let's prevent the violence by distracting everyone by the peaceful protests. I believe that these flash mobs are only a phase. They will eventually get old and teenagers suffering from boredom will find something else to fill up time.

5/12/2010

Patrick R.
North east high , Philadelphia Pa
In this city most of the young people want to be noticed for doing something. Flash mobing are a perfect way to get noticed. People tend to get wrapped up in alot of negative things. young people can be easily influenced and dont think on thier own. Being labeled as a tough person seems to be the only thing that concerns kids. And i guess in there heads going crazy and hitting innnocent people is there idea of being tough. this is phsase that will soon pass like all other things. if kids learn to have a mind of thier own things will be ok.

5/12/2010

Corbin 7th
Northeast, Philadelphia, PA
These event are only the beginning.Unfortunately very soon unemployment will rise again and as joblessness will continue so these flash mobs are bound to get worse.When the young can't get what they want and realize what's been taken away they tend to cause trouble. However the government will make sure this doesn't get out of hand by using brute force. This kind of situation is made by the young but the root cause is from the older generation, which the teenagers of today will blame.But as for now I believe , things will stay orderly in a general sense. All i'm saying is that expect riots and a lot of death soon.There is no hope for this generation including me to be super successful so things are bound to get out of hand cause you know what they say "when you have nothing to lose you lose it."

5/12/2010

MariahS. pd5 Frank
Northeast Magnet, Phialdelphia PA
I think it is reckless and irrational what kids these days are doing. I believe that students should be getting together to do homework or helping the community, instead of creating chaos and injuring people. I think what causes this problem is that teenagers get excited to see that they were part of something that got a lot of attention. When the teens do these things they are overwhelmed that its on the news or in newspapers or even on the radio. Knowing that gets them excited and drives them to do it again. I mean not all teens look for the attention, some are just not mannered enough and dont care what people think. If these teens where brought up in a well respected manner, things like flash mobs would not be taking place.

5/12/2010

Emanuel G.
Northeast High School, Philadelphia, PA
Some teenagers cause the violence because they think is fun and funny. Others probably do it to send a message. What message? I don't know. Either way this flash mob problem has to come to an end. I've been watching the news lately and all i have been seeing is these flash mobs going crazy everywhere. At least 4 times out of 10 when you see a group of teenagers it means trouble. Some people don't even want to go out to shop or have fun because they are afraid a flash mob will appear where ever they are at. A lot of times there's violence is because one group of teenagers if fighting another group of teenagers. Sometimes just to start a fight or because they've had problems in the past. The city has to crack down these flash mobs.

5/12/2010

Jewel K.
Northeast High School, Philadelphia PA
I think that these flash mobs are pretty stupid. Its just a bunch of kids who aren't getting attention that want to do something just because everyone else is. And sometimes it comes from being bored especially when your living in the somewhere doing the same thing and going to the same places all the time. I don't think that social networking sites are to blame because a lot of people use them to connect with their friends and to plan a flash mob. I think that this just a phase that kids are going through right now and that it'll pass soon. Unfortunately that phase is hurting people and damaging property.

5/12/2010

Lilin W
Northeast High School, Philadelphia,PA
I think the education will be one of the reasons which causes them do this kind of behavior. They choose an extreme way to vent their dissatisfaction. They do not think they are wrong, even feel this kind of behavior is interesting. And the environment they live may also be a reason, such as their friends encourage them to do. Incidentally, one person do this, another people who live Intimately with him will also be affected by the person. Some people may also learn and do this kind of things which were shown from the news. I think be educated from parents is important, every kids should have a good beginning of their life, then they may keep themselves away from the Flash Mobs.

5/11/2010

Emir T.
Northeast High, Philadelphia
I think that flash mobs, are kids starving for attention. i say that because alot of the kids in this city have nothing to do. so they join social sites to link up with friends. flash mobs are never planned, they just happen. the reason alot of kids be there is because they seen it on a social site and figured since everybody else is going then im going to go too. i think thats a shame, there are so many teenagers in this city with nothing to do. no programs, no jobs, nothing. so when your bored and really have nothing to do in the inner city, violent things happen. alot of the people that get locked up for the flash mob weren't even apart of it. bored causes these things to happen and they're going to keep happening unless the city do something to keep the teenagers occupied!!

5/11/2010

Sandra B
NEHS, Philadelphia
I think that some flash mobs start out innocent with the intent to have fun and mingle with friends, however there are other flash mobs who intend to get into a fight and cause a big scene so that they can be seen on the 6 o'clock news. Especially being from Philly where there is a lot of violence i cant help but think that some people honestly just want to fight on the other hand i have friends who hang out in huge groups because they enjoy hanging out with a lot of different personalities. I also think the name FLASH MOB is a little harsh not all flash mobs are bad and want to harm people, they are just looking to have a great time with lots of different people

5/11/2010

sean k.
northeast, philadelphia pa
I think the on;y reason there are flashmobs is because people are bored and have nothing better to do. If there were only the peaceful falshmobs no one would be hurt or arrested.

5/11/2010

Adam
Warren Hills, New Jersey
I think everyone should chillax. Flash mobs are something that's really fun, but has been abused by irresponsible people...kind of like having guns. Just kidding. But honestly, it's not the city's responsibility to keep kids occupied, it's parents and the kids themselves. The police shouldn't have to play babysitter for irresponsible parents who don't pay enough attention to their kids to stop them from forming angry mobs that destroy public property.

5/11/2010

DJ Roo
Warren Hills Regional High School, Asbury, New Jersey
The bottom-line is that young kids have an underlying desire to rebel. We all strive to be different and go against those who are "above us" or those who control our lives and the things we do. We want to be free. I am sure that many of the kids that are involved in the flash mobs already have disciplinary issues and are already being "controlled" further more than their peers. This could easily be a way to release themselves from the bondage that schools, police, etc. have put them in. These flash mobs are relief from rules and control that as students we face everyday, as rules become more and more strict.

5/11/2010

Terresa W.
Northeast High, Philadelphia, PA
In my opinion believe the people that are participating in these flash mobs have nothing better to do.Another thing is kids these days just like fighting for no reason.Since they have nothing better to do they decide to just mess with innocent people on the streets which is dead wrong.In some cases some of these kids are doing this pointless act because they are bullied themselves.If they had something better to do or even someone to talk to these acts would not be taking place.I believethese kids just need a little guidence and they would be okay.they could even use something that will keep them out of trouble like a job to keep them busy.

5/10/2010

SAHEETA
NORTHEAST HIGH, PHILADELPHIA
well in my opinion i dont think that every teen thats involved in these flash mobs go out with the intentions to cause violence. a lot of the time it just so happens to happen. most of these teenagers still use flash mobs as a way to link up with their friends from the internet and when they see post about meeting up somewhere through these social sites they decide to join because they see that everyone else is going to be there as well and they want to be a part of it. as far as flash mobs being violent its just a handful of people who start it and triggers everyone else when all they wanted to do was hang out.

5/10/2010

KATHERINE.. MR.FRANK 2ND PD
NORTHEAST HIGH SCHOOL, PHILADELPHIA
Will i think that is not right to said all teens do it cause they dont.. but sometimes teens dont have all the flaut in want happens. there parents do to because they should know the peolpe the kids are haging out with and where they at too. Sometimes is true teens does cause problems at places because of phenomenon but i think is cause they are bored and they dont have a life.also i think that the teens that have these flash mobs are putting a name out there for all peole in our age group and its not good because we all are not like that. some of us just like to go out with our friend to have fun but not to cause any problems with no one.. thats wat i think about these teens with flash mobs

5/10/2010

Keenan A.
Northeast H.S Magnet, Philadelphia/PA
I believe flash mobs are a big problem in the urban youth today. It is usually started by making a location where everyone wants to attend. Out of that people only bout 5% of the people are involved in a flash mob. I should kno because i have been to a few of these place where flash mobs occur. Its not every teenager at the scene in a flash mob. Mostly just a few people who mess it up for everyone else. This could easily be stopped by just by singling out the so called trouble makers and call it day.

5/7/2010

Rachel
ENMS, New York
This is happening because us kids get bored. In big cities, we want something to do on our way to the movies, or theater, or wherever we're going. And in those smaller cities, kids just want to do something. And if a group of kids is just about to start, and I'm bored and have nothing to do, why not join in on the fun?

5/7/2010

Jim
Northeast Highschool, Philadelphia
I believe the reason for this phenomenon is because teenagers are bored and have nothing to do with their lives. When kids my age are bored out of their minds or is not amuse, they have a sudden urge to cause havoc to common folks on the streets or in stores. This Flash mob group seem to try to make a name for themselves of a some sort of upcoming of the youth. Usually when u think of large gangs or a huge group that have no good intentions, are adults or middle age. Well i feel as if the flash mob represent the teens and pre-teens out there in the world. Its kinda sad seeing so many teenagers choose this path of disgusting behaviors towards innocent people. Now in this 21st centruary, almost anything can happen. I'm not surprise at all about this of fiasco and phenomenon of the Flash Mob. I just wish parents and police step into this situation and deal with these trouble teens.

5/7/2010

Sean
Altoona Area Highschool, Altoona/ PA
I can understand this, it's just the idea that its cool. who doesn't want to be known as the rebel. it's not right, but everyone wants to be accepted, and being in mobs like these allow for students to fit in, i would not be suprised if many of the people in these mobs are the social rejects of their schools, doing these mobs is a quick and easy way to get a rep that is what causes it