Is it my imagination, or is this happening more frequently now?
I think it’s happening more often now compared to 20 or even 10 years ago. One reason may be the teens spend too much time being idle and accountable to no one. I started (officially) working outside the home when I was 14. Same age as when I got my Driver’s Permit.
I get the impression less are employed while in junior high or even in high school.
Less is expected and asked of these kids. Many don’t see themselves as in the process of growing up at all. Too many end up blaming the custodial parent for everything that is imperfect about their lives.
More and more grew up unchurched or without any faith in any concept of God. This small percent of teens don’t really know what it means to have faith in oneself.