 Why do Teens Run Away?
They are not bad; they simply have made bad decision. These teenagers found themselves caught up with pressures that they felt the need to escape from. They are afraid to face with their problem and solve it. Instead of this, they choose to run from it. Parents have to teach their teen how to deal with their problems, even if the problem is her or his parents. When they have your support, love, and understanding, and there is no more need for them to escape.
Parents of teens who run away are not bad parents. One study on this topic reported that about 16% of runaways have been abused emotionally, physically, or sexually. Children of abuse tend to stick around, and run from the situation; this is another feature.
What do You Have to do in Case of Teen Running Away?
Immediately, call the police. Don’t even think to wait 24 hours, do it right now. Take the name and badge number of the officer you speak with. Call back him often.
Call all friends of your child, and everybody your child knows. Enlist their support. Search everywhere, but don’t leave your phone.
Conduct a search of your teen’s room; you can find something that may give you a prompting about his or her whereabouts. You may also check your phone bill for any calls your child may have made recently.
What Should You do When Your Teen Comes Home?
- Take a break from each other. Do not begin to talk about it right now. Your emotions are too high at this point to obtain something in this conversation. Go to separate rooms until you both have gotten some rest.
- Ask and listen. Why did he or she leave? You may want to change a rule or two after speaking with your child, but do not do so during this conversation. Tell your teen that you are willing to think about it, and you will let them know.
- Talk. Teel your child how you felt about his or her running away, let them know that they hurt you by going. Explain that there isn’t a problem that you together can’t solve. If they ever feel that going away might solve something, it is better to have a talk to you first; you could always offer other choices, so they can make other decision.
- Get some help. You may find a person that your child respects, for example aunt or uncle. You may also want to seek professional help.
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