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Adolescents' and Parents' Perceptions of Runaway Behavior: Problems and Solutions

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Abstract

This exploratory study examined runaway adolescents' and parents' perceptions about youth and family life and explored reasons youth run away and what could be done that would help them remain home. Comparisons between adolescents' and parents' reports of family functioning demonstrated significant discrepancies. Few parents assumed any responsibility for the runaway behavior or change efforts. More adolescents blamed themselves or cited difficulties in parent–child relationships and offered ideas that entailed altering their attitudes and behaviors or family relationships. The implications of the findings for interventions and future research efforts are explored.

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Safyer, A.W., Thompson, S.J., Maccio, E.M. et al. Adolescents' and Parents' Perceptions of Runaway Behavior: Problems and Solutions. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal 21, 495–512 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1023/B:CASW.0000043361.35679.73

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/B:CASW.0000043361.35679.73

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