Missing vs. Runaway Youth: Understanding the Difference
When dealing with young individuals and social services, two terms tend to arise: “missing youth” and “runaway youth. While these terms seem like two sides of the same coin, they’re actually quite different situations involving the youth. In order to properly tend to each unique circumstance and intervene, we must understand the differences between missing and runaway youth.
Missing Youth
Missing youth refers to those under 18 years old whose whereabouts are unknown to their legal guardians. These cases often involve:
Abduction: Cases where a child is taken against their will, usually by a non-family member.
Custody Disputes: Situations where one parent removes the child from the custodial parent without permission.
Unexplained Disappearances: Instances where a child vanishes without a clear reason.
It's essential to report missing youth to law enforcement promptly. Timely action can be critical in ensuring their safety. Responding to missing youth cases is often urgent - it usually involves coordination between law enforcement agencies, social services, and the community. The goal is to locate the missing youth quickly, ensuring their safety and reuniting them with their caregivers or guardians. Missing youth cases can be distressing for families and require a multidisciplinary approach to achieve a positive outcome.
Runaway Youth
Runaway youth are minors who leave home voluntarily without permission. Common reasons for running away include:
Family Conflict: Ongoing disputes or conflicts within the family, including abuse or neglect.
Peer Pressure: Influence from friends or acquaintances.
Substance Abuse: Escaping an environment where substance abuse is prevalent.
LGBTQ+ Issues: Struggles related to sexual orientation or gender identity, often leading to rejection or discrimination at home.
The response to runaway youth cases requires having a nuanced approach. While the youth runs away voluntarily, understanding the underlying factors of their decision is important. Social workers, counselors, and other support services are critical in assessing the young individual’s issues and needs. The solution requires prioritizing the youth’s safety and well-being, but reconciliation with the caregivers can also be a part of the process.
Comprehending the Difference
The key difference between missing and runaway youth is their intent to leave. Missing youth often leave involuntarily, while runaway youth choose to leave. However, it's essential not to jump to conclusions. A child initially labeled as a runaway may later be considered missing if foul play is suspected.
Handling the Issue
Communication: Open and honest communication between parents or guardians and youth is essential to prevent both situations. Encourage an environment where youth feel safe discussing their concerns.
Support Services: Local organizations and youth shelters provide support and resources for missing and runaway youth. These services can include counseling, shelter, and access to education.
Legal Assistance: In cases of child custody disputes, legal counsel may be necessary to resolve conflicts without the child fleeing.
Community Involvement: Communities can play a crucial role by offering safe spaces and support for youth experiencing distress.
Understanding the distinction between missing and runaway youth is vital for effectively addressing these vulnerable individuals' needs. Providing support, communication, and access to resources can help prevent these situations and ensure the well-being of our youth.
References:
Gambon, T., O’Brien, J. Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health, Council on Community Pediatrics, Lavin, A., Askew, G., Baum, R., Berger-Jenkins, E., Johnson, T., Jutte, D., Nasir, A., Duffee, J., Dilley, K.J., Green, A.E., Javier, J., Mathur, M., Mattson, G., Montez, K.G., Nelson, J.L., & Peltier, C.B. (2020) Runaway youth: Caring for the nation’s largest segment of missing children. Pediatrics. DOI:10.1542/peds.2019-3752
The Amber Advocate. (n.d.). Rethinking missing and runaway children. https://www.amberadvocate.org/amber-news/aa38-rethinking-runaways-and-missing-children/
Puente, C. (2022 November 3). Lubbock police explains the difference between a missing endangered child and a runaway. Everything Lubbock. https://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/lubbock-police-explains-the-difference-between-a-missing-endangered-child-and-a-runaway/
