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Teen Runaways are on the increase. Many teens think that the grass is
greener on the other side.
They are confused and following the crowd of peers
making poor choices. Teens want to escape the "rules of a household" and
we as parents, become their number one enemy. They feel that they are
fearless and can prove they can survive without their parents and our
rules. Rules are put in place for a reason; we love our children and
want them to grow up with dignity and respect we try to instill in
them. Their flight plan, in some ways, is a cry for attention. Many
times runaways are back home shortly, however there are other situations
that can be more serious. This is not to say any child that runs away
is not serious, but when this becomes a habit and is their way of
rebelling, a parent needs to intervene.
So many times we hear how "their friend’s parents"
allow a much later curfew or are more lenient, and you are the worst
parents in the world. This is very common and the parent feels helpless,
hopeless and alone. It is all part of the manipulation the teens put us
through. With their unappreciative thoughts of us, they will turn to
this destructive behavior, which, at times, results in them leaving the
home.
Some teens go to a friend's house or relative they
believe they can trust and make up stories about their home life. This
is very common, a parent has to suffer the pain and humiliation that it
causes to compound it with the need to get your child help that they
need. If you fear your child is at risk of running, the lines of
communication have to be open. We understand this can be difficult,
however if possible needs to be approached in a positive manner. Teen
help starts with communication.
If you feel this has escalated to where you cannot
control them, it may be time for placement and possibly having your
child escorted. Please know that the escorts (transports) are all
licensed and very well trained in removing children from their home into
safe programs. These escorts are also trained counselors that will talk
to your child all the way, and your child will end his/her trip with a
new friend and a better understanding of why their parents had to resort
to this measure.
Helpful Hint if you child has runaway and you are
using all your local resources – offer a cash reward to their friends
privately, of course promising their anonymity and hopefully someone
will know your child’s whereabouts.
Having a teen runaway is very frightening and it can
bring you to your wits end. Try to remain positive and hopeful and do
all you can to help understand why your child is acting out this way.
These are times when parents need to seek help for themselves. Don’t be
ashamed to reach out to others. We are all about parents helping
parents.
If you feel your teen is in need of further Boarding School, Military School or Program Options, please complete our
Information
Request Form. Please visit
Informational
Articles for more beneficial information. Visit
our Teen Runaways
info site. |
