Road runners: Why youth abscond from out-of-home care in New Zealand

Youth absconding from out-of-home care is a prevalent and concerning issue that faces residential care facilities, creating a myriad of negative consequences for the young person, those around them (family and friends) and society. There are a range of explanations within the literature as to why youth abscond from care, which can be grouped into individual, relational and contextual factors. This research explored the risk and protective factors for absconding behavior through two studies. The quantitative study examined the risk factors for absconding through a retrospective file audit of New Zealand young people who had resided in out-of-home care (N = 241). Regression analyses revealed that there was a significant relationship between absconding and gender (females are at higher risk), a higher number of admissions to care, and suicidal ideation. The qualitative study involved interviewing 40 young people from out-of-home care, including both absconders and non-absconders. Results indicated that absconding was motivated primarily by relationships―absconders left in order to stay connected with significant others outside, or to avoid difficult relationships with staff or peers within the residence. Boredom motivated absconding, as did feeling that their freedom or autonomy was stifled in care, with no-smoking rules influencing the many young smokers to leave. Care system factors, especially lack of information about their placements and care, frustrated young people and motivated absconding. This mix of individual, relational and contextual factors contributes to understanding why youth abscond and what might work to ultimately prevent and reduce rates of absconding.