NCJ Number
89601
Journal
Journal of Marital and Family Therapy Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1982) Pages: 121-127
Date Published
1982
Length
7 pages
Annotation
New research indicates that running away from home is related to family dysfunction. Intervention efforts in this area must be changed to encompass a family therapeutic approach sensitive to intergenerational forces of family loyalty, legacy, and trust.
Abstract
The status offender legal jurisdiction over runaways needs to be changed and new alternatives for dealing with runaways and their families developed. These new modes of help should be locally controlled, voluntarily activated, community-based, and readily accessible. A contextual family therapy approach is likely to be a critical and effective method for comprehending and treating the runaway phenomenon, and for devising alternative societal responses to children and families in conflict. Ten references are provided.