Yeah...all this kinda stuff started happening about 20 years ago..
Just kidding...
The moral fabric of the United States started to tatter and unwind when women wanted to and/or had to start getting out of the house to earn income for the household. No parental figures around to take care of the kids and keep them tuned up. Kids had the run of things at babysitters or were at home alone doing whatever they wanted. Children were in charge of their own little worlds and could do whatever they wanted with no consequences for their actions.
Then you throw in the politicians and the legal system....that's a whole other story! But in my opinion...for what it's worth...there's your answer.