One of the common missing person’s case a private investigator gets is locating or finding a missing teen. A private investigator must first determine if a teen went missing due to foul play or if they ran away on their own accord. Runaway teens are a common problem and more so then most parents realize. To help warn parents about the possibility that your teen may be a future runaway, Advanced Private Investigator & Security of Miami FL will share some of the common signs that your teen may be thinking of running away from home.
My Son or Daughter Stays Out All Night
Early to late teens are often given a curfew and know not to stay out past a certain time. As teens begin to develop their independence they may begin to stay out later and later. As many parents may not consider this a red flag, it very well may be an early step of a runaway teen. Typically teens may be late every now and then. However, when the late nights begin to get later and more constant, this could be a major problem. Many teens may be testing to see how far you are willing to let them go and do it to the point they may decide not to return home. Parents, it is important to pay attention to your teen’s schedule and know when they should be home or if they had plans to hang out with friends and what time they should be home. If they refuse to give you a time, this is another step toward a runaway teen. Make sure you know when your teen will be home and where they are going. Make sure you have a curfew set in place and it is enforced.
Signs of Alcohol or Drug Abuse & Addiction
Parents, you must also be aware if your teen is exploring alcohol or drugs. In many cases, runaway teens leave home, quit school or other responsibilities, to indulge in drinking or drugs. Often alcohol and/or drug usage will co-inside with staying out late or not returning home on some nights. Look for signs that your teen may be doing drugs or drinking. You often can smell it on their person or on their breath. Some teens may even try to hide either of these substances at home. If you notice that your child may have begun a life of drugs or alcoholism, approach them. Help them gain control of the situation before they become another runaway.
Sleeping Over Friends House More
When a teen wishes to stay over friend’s homes more often than ever before, this can be a sign that your teen is feeling pushed away from their own home. Yes, their friends may have gotten a new game they don’t have or the like. However, in many cases there is something about their own home they are trying to escape. When a teen wants to be somewhere else it’s often because they don’t want to be home. The more they are away the easier it is for them to stay away. Ask you teen if there is a reason why they don’t want to be at home. You may need to make some major changes about your home or even your behavior. However, it’s far better than pushing your teen out the door.
Not Socializing with Family
When a teen begins to distance themselves from parents or family, know that this is probably your last chance. Most teens will avoid family to hide the fact they are planning to run away. Keep in mind this is often the last and final sign of a runaway teen. Now is the time you need to approach your teen. Talk with them, be around more often, and make them feel like their place is with you. Never allow a teen to become a stranger to your home. Often letting them know they are important will discourage the teen from running away. Again, you will want to see what is causing them to want to run away and correct the problem.
Private Investigator Services & More in Greater Miami, Sunny Isles, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Weston, Plantation City & Miami Gardens Florida
Preventing a runaway is much easier than looking for a runaway. However, if your teen has disappeared and you need help, contact Advanced Private Investigator & Security of Miami FL.
