It is often lamented that "kids these days have NO respect". My question is, when DID kids ever really respect adults and can you show me this empirically. Moreover, who's fault is it that kids don't have respect. Lastly, should kids even respect adults given that many times adults lack respect and make many foolish and ill advised decisions (rampant debt, obesity, shallowness etc. in society today)

You respect someone when you acknowledge their self-worth and treat them with honor. Respect is not just "earn-able". It is also a free gift that can be offered. For example: I can treat a stranger with self-worth and honor without him "earning" it. I could also treat a good friend with dishonor. It is my choice on how I treat them.

This is a very mature practice and a concept that many never really understand. The truth is, maturity is not based upon ones age. It is based upon ones character. A old man might be very childish. While a young seven year old might show himself to be a man.

No doubt children need to have this maturity modeled for them. Mature adults should teach others to treat everyone with this type of honor and self-worth. It is the difference in being a giver or a taker, making others better or satisfying your own personal whims.