Criminology Research Council grant ; (8/81)
Intensive interviews with runaway youths were conducted in Perth, Brisbane and Surfers Paradise. Runaways were defined as youths under 16 years who are (a) away from home without parental consent, (b) defined as runaways by law enforcement or service agencies or (c) identified by themselves or by relevant significant others as runaways. Altogether 120 runaways and 40 parents were interviewed. In addition refuges and agencies dealing with runaways were observed and analysed.
There was much evidence of a growing problem of runaways in Australia. Four basic types of runaways were identified. The first, Adventure-Seekers, are pulled towards areas they define as 'exciting' as part of their search for independence and self identity. Refugees on the other hand, perceive major problems in their family situations and cope with these problems by running away. The Escapees also cope with institutional settings by absconding while the fourth group, Problem-Solvers choose to run away from home as a result of a specific problem involving their family, school or personal relationships.
Many refuges and agencies were found to treat runaways as being of one type and are in turn perceived by the young person as being irrelevant to his or her needs. It is clear that most urban areas require far more runaway refuges and ones which cater specifically for the drug, crime and emotional problems that accompany running away behaviour.
Hostel and wayside services to reduce the hazards of travel and survival away from home are called for.
The report suggested that runaway behaviour be decriminalised to allow for greater contact with and use of existing refuges and agencies.
Eleven per cent of the sample were caught up in the juvenile justice system as a result of being charged with runaway offences (absent without parental consent, needing care and control).
The consequences of running away were extensive. Fifty-two per cent of the sample had experienced juvenile court proceedings and 28 per cent had been institutionalised. Serious drug, prostitution, health and psychological problems (including suicide) existed among the sample. Further work in the area is continuing and Dr Wilson has commenced work on a book on this subject.