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Runaway Teen Struggles

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Submitted By mercedes2
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Running head: RUNAWAY TEEN STRUGGLES

Runaway Teens Struggles
Joyce W. Davis
Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Abstract
Research has shown that physical and sexual maltreatment precipitate runaway behavior in adolescents. However, there has been little large— scale examination of the family, school, and personal problems of maltreated adolescents. In the present paper, an 85—items Client information Record was completed on 2,019 runaway by shelter staff from eight southeastern states. There were significant differences in the problems reported by physically abused, sexually abusive, depression, stress and prostitution runaways when compared to their non abused runaway peers. Runaways who were both physical and sexual abuse maltreated were significantly more vulnerable and much was off than those who only experienced either physical or sexual abuse. The purpose of this review of information is to contribute a better understanding of how physical and sexual abuse are correlated to runaway teens and how depression, stress and prostitution faced by many young people, today.

Runaway Teen Struggles
“The runaway and throwaway issue has been a silent crisis far too long. We badly need a little noise, and the hope is that government officials, educators, and ordinary citizen join in the clamor.” Maureen, Blair

Although estimates vary, each year approximately 1.5 million young people in the United States—more than half of them between the ages of 15 and 17—leave home suddenly under difficult circumstances. Some run away, while parents or guardians send others away. Many runaways find that while they may have gotten away from adults at home who seemed unable or unwilling to protect and care for themselves. The adults they fine on the streets are no more nurturing, each year, some five thousand young people on the street die of suicide, illness,

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