NCJ Number
99940
Date Published
1985
Length
108 pages
Annotation
This book explains the nature and extent of the problem of missing children in the United States, describes action and service programs designed to deal with the problem, and suggests steps that teenagers and adults can take to reduce the risks and support existing efforts.
Abstract
Overview chapters explain that the main category of missing children consists of runaway teenagers and discuss the scope of parental abductions and abductions by strangers. The causes of running away and parental abduction, the characteristics of strangers who abduct young people, and preventive measures are discussed. Sources of help for dealing with each problem are explained, including action groups, hotlines, shelters, and legislation. Arguments for and against the fingerprinting of children are presented. Governmental programs and agencies are described, including the National Crime Information Center, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the National Child Victim Network, and a program to track sex offenders. Forms, photographs, and address lists of information sources and action agencies are included. 14 references and index.