Disconnected: How parent-child relationships influence teenage runaways

SHAH ALAM - Psychologists emphasised that teenagers who run away from home face substantial risks and consequences that can profoundly impact their mental health and well-being.

In the complex world of adolescent experiences, the phenomenon of teenage runaways stands as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between parental relationships and adolescent resilience.

Following the recent incident of a teenage girl who ran away from home, Malaysian Psycho Spiritual Well-being Association Deputy Chairman, Psychologist and Suicidologist Dr Adnan Omar said that teenagers might run away from home due to various factors.

“This includes poor communication with parents leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection, inadequate emotional tools to navigate stress and relationship challenges, and experiences of abuse, whether emotional, verbal, physical, or sexual.

“Additionally, as they seek to establish their identities, some teenagers may find interest and support outside the home, especially with the influence of the internet, which can sometimes override parental guidance and encouragement, prompting them to seek support elsewhere,” he said.

Adnan said that teenage runaways face significant risks and consequences, including exposure to violence, exploitation, substance abuse, and criminal activities, posing serious safety concerns.

“Additionally, they may experience physical health issues due to inadequate nutrition and medical care. The absence of familial, social, and community support can exacerbate mental health problems, contributing to feelings of loneliness and despair.

“Moreover, recurring instances of running away, particularly among those with severe parental conflicts, can perpetuate cycles of tension and reconciliation within the family.

“Furthermore, runaway episodes can disrupt education, leading to academic setbacks and long-term consequences for skill development and future opportunities,” he said.

Meanwhile, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Psychology Counselling Expert Associate Professor Dr Fauziah Mohd Sa'ad said a few factors contribute to the reasons for teenagers in Malaysia to run away from home.

“This entails family conflicts, abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual), peer pressure, substance abuse, academic stress and mental health issues like depression or anxiety.

“Specific risk factors that make certain teenagers more prone to running away include a history of abuse or neglect, lack of parental supervision or involvement, substance abuse problems, involvement with delinquent peers, and mental health disorders,” she added.

Fauziah also emphasised that running away could have significant negative impacts on the mental health and well-being of teenagers.

She mentioned that teenagers could have an increased risk of experiencing trauma, substance abuse, engaging in risky behaviours, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.

Recently, a viral incident depicted a teenage girl, Siti Dhia Batrisyia Mohd Chairil Anuar, aged 12, reported missing on March 12 after running away from home following a misunderstanding with her mother.

The mother, Syarifah Rosfazila Syed Muhammad Fazili, aged 41, recounted that prior to her daughter's disappearance, she reprimanded Dhia for skipping school.

Dhia was found walking alone near a shop lot area in Sri Rampai at 2.28 am five days after she was reported missing.

Dhia’s case is only one example of many more teenagers who would run away from home either after a confrontation with family or lured by people who they met on social media.

While some might be found, others would not have been so lucky.

Experts believed that open communication between parents and children could be the key for a more harmonious relationship.