Wild Rules Teens Actually Followed in the 60s
Teenagers today enjoy freedoms that were unheard of in the 1960s. Back then, strict rules shaped the lives of young people, often dictating how they should act, dress, and socialize.
Many of these rules now seem laughable and bizarre, showing just how much society has shifted over the decades. Here, we dive into 18 common expectations every 60s teenager had to follow and why, in hindsight, they were downright ridiculous.
No Wearing Jeans to School
Jeans were often banned in schools, seen as rebellious and inappropriate. Teens had to wear more formal attire, like skirts or slacks.
It was a rule that stifled self-expression and comfort. Today, it seems silly to deny kids something so simple.
No Long Hair for Boys
Long hair on boys was considered a sign of defiance. Many schools enforced strict haircut policies.
If a boy’s hair was “too long,” he might face punishment. It’s now odd to think of hair length as a symbol of trouble.
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No Skirts Above the Knee
Girls’ skirts had to hit below the knee in most schools. Showing even a bit more leg was deemed “inappropriate.”
Teen girls were often sent home to change if skirts were too short. The rule seems strange today, especially with relaxed dress codes.
Curfews Were Non-Negotiable
Teens had strict curfews, often as early as 8 or 9 p.m. Breaking curfew meant big trouble and often punishment.
Parents believed early curfews would keep kids out of trouble. Looking back, it feels harsh, especially since most were harmless.
No Rock ‘n’ Roll Dancing
Dancing to rock ‘n’ roll was seen as too provocative. Schools banned these dances at events, opting for “safer” music.
This rule tried to tame teenage excitement and individuality. Nowadays, it’s hard to imagine dance styles being restricted.
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Dating Was a Formal Affair
Teens were expected to date in highly formal ways. Dating often required parental permission and supervision.
Casual dating didn’t exist as we know it today. Now, the whole setup seems overly strict and outdated.
Girls Were Not Allowed to Call Boys
It was seen as improper for a girl to initiate contact with a boy. Girls could only wait by the phone, hoping for a call.
This rule reinforced outdated gender norms. Today, it’s almost funny to imagine teens restricted by this.
No Talking Back to Adults
Talking back or challenging adults was a strict no-no. Teens were expected to show unquestioning respect and obedience.
Even harmless disagreements could get them labeled as “disrespectful.” Looking back, this rule feels stifling and unfair.
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No Parties Without Parental Supervision
Any social gathering had to be closely monitored by adults. Parents worried that unsupervised parties would lead to “bad behavior.”
Teens had little freedom to socialize without watchful eyes. This level of control seems excessive by today’s standards.
Strict Bedtimes for All
Even as teenagers, they had early and unbreakable bedtimes. Parents believed that staying up late led to poor behavior.
Teens had little autonomy over their daily routines. Now, it feels bizarre for high schoolers to be in bed by 9.
Makeup Was a Controversial Topic
Wearing makeup was seen as “too grown-up” for most teenage girls. In some schools, it was even banned entirely.
Parents and teachers felt makeup made girls look “rebellious.” Today, the rule seems unfair, especially given modern beauty norms.
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No Talking to Boys Without Permission
Boys and girls had strict boundaries, even in casual settings. If a girl spoke to a boy, it often needed an adult’s approval.
It was a rule that discouraged normal teenage friendships. In hindsight, it’s hard to understand the strictness over something so innocent.
No Driving Without an Adult
Even if they had their license, teens rarely drove alone. Parents insisted on accompanying them “just in case.”
This lack of trust made independence difficult to achieve. Today, teen drivers have more freedom and responsibility.
No Slang Allowed
Using teen slang was frowned upon and often punished in school. Adults saw it as disrespectful or a sign of poor upbringing.
Teens had to “speak properly” at all times. Now, language freedom is embraced, making this rule seem extreme.
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Limited Use of the Family Phone
Most families had only one phone, and teen access was limited. Parents controlled when and how long they could use it.
This rule made connecting with friends outside of school a challenge. With smartphones today, it’s almost unimaginable.
No Walking Alone at Night
Teens were rarely allowed to go out at night unsupervised. Parents saw nighttime as risky, even for harmless activities.
This rule kept teens from developing independence. It’s a far cry from today’s world, where many teens have more freedom.
Girls Couldn’t Wear Pants to Certain Events
At school functions or church, girls were expected to wear skirts. Pants were seen as “unladylike” and inappropriate for formal settings.
This rule reinforced outdated ideas about femininity. Now, the notion of banning pants feels overly restrictive.
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Only “Respectable” Jobs Were Allowed
Teens were discouraged from working in “unapproved” jobs, like diners. They were pushed toward “respectable” positions, like office work.
This limited their options and reinforced social expectations. Today, teens are encouraged to gain work experience wherever they choose.
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