As parents, we strive to create a loving and safe environment for our children. However, sometimes, despite our best efforts, teenagers may feel compelled to leave home. Hearing about runaway teens in the news can be concerning, prompting many questions: Why does this happen? What risks do these young people face? And most importantly, what can parents do if their child runs away?
Understanding the ‘why’ behind running away
Teens rarely run away on impulse. Most cases involve a complex mix of emotional stress, personal struggles, and challenging environments. Understanding these factors can help families intervene with empathy and support.
Common reasons include:
- Family conflict: Ongoing arguments, divorce, or feeling unheard at home can push teens to escape tension or emotional neglect.
- Abuse or neglect: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse – and even general neglect – can make a home feel unsafe.
- Mental health issues: Depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, often intensified by school pressure or lack of support, can overwhelm teens.
- Peer influence: Friends who encourage rebellion or independence can sway teens to leave.
- Romantic relationships: Relationships that are not approved of by parents may prompt teens to leave in search of acceptance.
- Gender identity rejection: Teens who are struggling with their gender or sexual identity, or facing rejection for who they are may run away from homes where they experience discrimination or feel unsafe.
- High-risk behaviours: Involvement in substances or risky online relationships can create conflict at home.
- Avoiding punishment: Some teens run to escape confrontation or fear of being reprimanded.
Warning signs and risks
eens thinking about running away often show signs of emotional distress. These may include increased isolation, mood swings, withdrawal from family activities, or expressing feelings of being misunderstood or hopeless.
If not addressed, these issues can escalate. Teens who leave home face real dangers – ranging from exploitation, trafficking, and substance abuse, to physical violence and mental health crises. Without shelter or resources, many are forced into survival behaviours that put them at even greater risk.
What parents can do
If your teen runs away, stay calm and act quickly:
- Contact the police immediately. Report them missing and provide a recent photo and relevant details.
- Reach out to friends, family, and school contacts who may have seen or heard from them.
- While waiting for news, avoid blame. Focus on maintaining calm, open lines of communication.
When your teen returns, prioritise listening without judgment. Understand their reasons for leaving and validate their emotions. Rebuilding trust takes time and professional support can be key. Consider seeking help from organisations like the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA), which offers counselling and guidance.
Ultimately, open communication, empathy and consistent emotional support are so important to preventing teens from feeling the need to run away. Make space for honest conversations, show genuine interest in their lives, and remind them they are always loved – no matter what.
