Runaways

Major upheavals occurring within your home, such as divorce, remarriage, and separation: These types of upheavals can trigger feelings for your child from which they may want to escape. Your child may benefit from the support of extended family or in some cases, a professional, to help your child manage the transition.

A high level of parent/youth conflict: As adolescence is a very challenging time for both parents and youth, it is not unusual for there to be disagreements and arguments. It is important to monitor the escalation of these exchanges to avoid confrontations that result in the child running away or being kicked out of the home.

Abuse: If there is abuse happening in the home, either between the adults or against the child, it needs to be addressed. Addressing such situations is complex and often requires the involvement and support of others, such as police, child and family services, a family counsellor, extended family, etc. Be honest about what your family, and your child, is struggling with and take steps to get the help needed.

Alcohol and/or drug use issues: If a parent or sibling has alcohol and/or drug use issues, your teen may feel it is easier to leave than to try to resolve the problem.