Runaway Youths and Correlating Factors, Study in Thailand
Pisarn Techakasem MD*, Varuna Kolkijkovin MD*
Affiliation : * Department of Psychiatry, BMA Medical College and Vajira Hospital
Objective : To study differences between runaways and non-runaways in a mental health clinic and to study
differences between runaways in a mental health clinic and legal / shelter system.
Materials and Methods : Psychiatric records of runaways and non-runaways from Vajira Hospital were collected
from June 1994 to October 2003. 21 cases in each group were studied in various factors. 21 runaway cases
who were in child and adolescent shelters were interviewed by the researchers.
Results : Neglect, sexual abuse, rejection, poverty and truancy were more common in the runaway group. The
runaway group had more conduct disorder and substance abuse. Physical abuse, authoritarian and being in
custody were more common in runaways in shelters.
Conclusion : Various factors correlate with running away. These factors lie beneath long before runaway has
taken place and understanding and managing them help in preventing and prompt treatment.
Keywords : Runaway, Youth, Correlating factors
