Runaway Dynamics: Examining First-time and Repeat Runaway Behavior

• In Event: Enhancing Juvenile Justice in the Midwest

Abstract

Previous research into runaway behaviors of youth have indicated certain patterns exist that predispose youth to go on the run and subsequently engage in other forms of high-risk behavior. However a great deal of this research does not distinguish between youth that run away habitually and those who only run once. This study examines these distinct populations in a Midwestern metropolitan setting to determine if there are significant differences in the motivations or predictors of running away for each subgroup. Surveys addressing the frequency, duration, and causes of runaway incidents were administered to all youth who were presented to Juvenile Probation Intake; preliminary results indicate that the dynamics occurring in this jurisdiction differ significantly from national averages. This paper concludes with recommendations for policy changes that are more reflective of the unique needs of this community.

Authors

• Calli M. Cain, University of Nebraska at Omaha

• Johanna Peterson, University of Nebraska at Omaha