It is the purpose of this research project to develop a profile of predictive variables that would be helpful in distinguishing a missing juvenile report of a runaway from that of a missing youth who may have met with "foul play" and who does not fit the pattern of the runaway youth. The usefulness of such a tested set of predictive variables would be in designing a report form to be used by the peace officer who takes the initial report enabling him to immediately identify the situation as one of a runaway indicating one type of follow-up as opposed to a situation involving the possibility of "foul play" which would indicate a totally different investigative procedure and priority of action.

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In America, it is estimated that between 500,000 and two million children run away each year. A majority of these runaways become involved with illegal substance abuse. This study questions whether children experience substance abuse prior to their running away or if their substance abuse is an attempt to cope with the new stressors created by street life. Data collection will include having 50 volunteers complete a questionnaire, with consideration of race and gender. The findings suggested that no relationship exist between runaways engaging in drug use and the amount of stress experienced at home or during the runaway.