text: how do you put up with coworkers that are 16 and 17 that act immature all the time and get away with it? i work at a local grocery store, so it's not the most important job in the world, but i act my age (20) do my work and keep my mouth shut. however, my co-workers seem to think whining that they wanna go home, or i'm bored is okay, and they never get into trouble. any advice? don't get angry or upset with them.  instead, if they whine to you, say something like, "i prefer not to speak badly about my employer and colleages."  say it in a totally neutral tone of voice and then go back to what you were doing.  at first they might be a little bit angry, but that's just because they've suddenly realized that their behavior is not appropriate.  if it happens repeatedly and/or in front of customers, i suggest speaking to your supervisor about the potential negative effects this could have on business.  alternately, get your mom or dad to anonymously write a "comment card" saying that they don't want to shop in that store because the high-school age employees make them uncomfortable with all their whining!