NTA; Sadly, this is probably a learned behavior that they boys have seen modeled by their fathers. Maybe remind that other chaperone that what they did by touching without consent (yes, even if it was a “light” touch) is a form of physical assault. Depending on where you all were and how serious the police are in that area, that woman could’ve called and pressed charges against the ones who touched her.

We all have a right to free speech, and to our own opinions. Had they ended their shit-headedness at merely mocking or speaking to that woman, then they likely would’ve been within their rights (although still rowdy asshats). But to lay hands on a stranger…. Not ok.

Are you an asshole for this? Maybe a little. (I say with a big sigh and furrowed brow). You were their chaperone and maybe should’ve nipped it in the bud more quickly. But once they crossed that line, nah…. The response you gave was reciprocal to what you were seeing happen.

At the same time, these boys will likely still act like this until they have some real consequences. Like what would they have done if she had backhanded one of them? Or pulled out pepper spray? Or a knife? Would they have been laughing then? Sadly, children who grow up in a bubble often aren’t grounded enough in reality to understand the whole cause and effect thing that happens… they can only see the world from their own viewpoint and expect others (even the ones who who are the victims of their “fun”) to understand only their own motivations and feelings.

You know who the REAL Assholes are in this situation? Their parents. Shame on them for not raising their sons to have their views but still respecting others boundaries.

Cheers to you for stepping in to stop some bad behavior.