Most economic research shows high minimum wages increase teen unemployment, though there are no doubt other contributors. In a tight labor market, wage mandates may have less of an effect on hiring. But when the economy cools and competition for labor weakens, higher minimums make it more costly to hire teens.
The upshot is that teens lose chances to learn critical life skills, such as showing up on time, following orders and juggling tasks. Politicians love to claim credit for raising the minimum wage, but they never consider the unintended casualties—idle young people who will be less equipped for future careers and life.