NCJ Number
81069
Date Published
Unknown
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This report draws data and concepts from the professional literature on runaways to address policy questions which runaways pose for professionals, society, and parents.
Abstract
Three-quarters of a million adolescents leave home without parental permission each year. Runaways are almost equally divided between males and females; they are more likely to come from low-income families. The lowest rate for runaways occurs in four-person households. Racial differences in runningaway are slight. Most runaways do not run far or stay long; 20 percent travel less than 1 mile, 52 percent less than 10 miles. One extensive research study describes two general classes and seven specific types of runaways. Class I, which includes three subtypes, is not highly delinquent and not alienated from family and school. This class composed 45 percent of the runaway sample. Class II is characterized as delinquent, alienated runaways. In general, it appears that youths who run are motivated by three groups of reasons: a desire to explore, negative experiences at home and in school, or being pushed out of the home by the parents. Decriminalization of runaway behavior and categorization of physical punishment by parents as abuse have created less support for parental authority. Perhaps this is one reason many parents give up on controlling or even influencing their children's behavior. The educational system should become more responsive to the needs of young people by offering alternatives to college preparatory work and by limiting enrollment size. In addition, alternatives to delinquent peer group activities should be developed within the community. Expanding employment opportunities for youth must be encouraged through appropriate legislation. Seventeen references are provided.