My 13 year old keeps running away from his dad's

[Guest]

My 13 year old son keeps running away from his dad's house. The first time we returned him, the second and third time we've given him some time to cool down and this last time he refuses to go back to his dad's his dad has legal custody with 50/50 parenting time between me and him I'm not sure what to do my son has expressed instances where verbal and emotional abuse has taken place but no physical abuse and what do I do if he absolutely refuses to go at this point I'm scared he won't run to a parent's house he'll run to a stranger's house and I'm at a loss please help thank you.

[ccsmod3]

Hi there,
Thanks so much for reaching out, and we’re sorry that you and your son are going through this difficult situation.
Since you mentioned abuse, one option would be to call Child Protective Services; a case worker would look into what’s going on, and the boy’s father cold potentially loose custody, or a new custody arrangement be decided. Abuse is something to seriously consider whether it’s physical abuse or not. If you go to childhelp.org, they have definitions and resource for support through this topic.
Another idea would be for you to work on a plan with your son, so that if he were to feel unsafe or want to run, he would have a plan to communicate with you right away, possibly a backpack ready, and places “lined up” where he can go to with your permission.
We would be happy to provide also counseling referrals in your city; if you think this may be of help, please call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY.
Lastly, here’s a hotline that may be of support you personally: Team Hope (Help Offering Parents Empowerment), 1-866-305-4673.
Again, please reach out if we can be of additional help, we’re here 24/7. Thank you, and we wish you a good and speedy resolution with your son’s situation!
-NRS

[Guest]

Thank you so much for your advice, we will definitely get a safety plan in place. The one thing I forgot to mention is his dad works for our local CPS and that makes us slightly hesitant to get them involved. Is there another Avenue we have available to us?

[ccsmod9]

Hi there,
Child Help USA 1-800-422-4453 www.childhelp.org is an organization that helps protect minors from being harmed. It may be a good option if CPS is something that might not be a good idea to initially get involved. However please that eventually CPS might need to be contacted so that the proper steps can be taken.
If you would like to talk more in detail please chat soon through our website www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button) if you are unable to call in. You can also feel free to call us at 1-800-786-2929
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe,
NRS