Fragile at 15 - Would you run away from home?
Published: Sunday | July 19, 2009
From left, Soraya Darwood, Dominic Morris, Janielle Spooner, Jajey Rhoden, Trevone Walcott, Nalia Rose, Taj Brown and Shanice Rose
Each year, hundreds of teenage girls go missing in Jamaica, but later return home. The figures dance around age 15. The Sunday Gleaner engaged two groups of teenagers between the ages of 14 and 16 in conversation, and both boys and girls shared common views on the issues they face at home.
Yes, it has crossed my mind. But then I thought about it carefully - how would I provide for myself? I did not do it because I would let too many people down. And then the consequences when I went back home home would be too great.
Yes, I often think about it - staying with someone other than my parents. When they drive you to that boiling point, you feel like going someplace to cool down; but I have no mode of transportation. I'll deal with the pressures for now.
It has crossed my mind many times, but then I say, why should I? It's safe at home, I get food, I get money, I sleep in my own bed. I would go to my aunt, but she would call my parents right away. in fact, she would take me back home. The repercussions would be horrible, so I find other ways to deal with my pressures. I write and I communicate with nature.
Yes, I would, if it comes to the point where I can't take living at home anymore. I have actually left for weekends, but my parents knew where I was.
I have thought about it when there is anger and feuding, but I would not, simply because it would hurt my parents too much. no, I have not reached that point where I would want to pack and go.
Yes, I would, if I can no longer take the pressure from my parents. They are always comparing you with others and saying 'Do this', 'Do that'. It's frustrating at times. I have about three school friends who have run away. The police found them and took them back home.
Yes, many times, but I would stay with my uncle, I am very close to him and he understands me.
No, I have never thought about it and I would not. Life cannot be better out there in the unknown than it is at home. I have counsellors with whom I talk about my problems.
Seven things that drive teen girls away from home
Teens say:
Sexual abuse
Loneliness
Pregnancy
Low self-esteem
Peer pressure
Stress from parents
Financial wants
10 big turn-offs - Hate when parents say ...
1. No without listening to reason.
2. We'll talk about it later.
3. I'm sick and tired of your attitude.
4. I just don't understand you.
5. You're going nowhere.
6. Don't you ever think of anybody but yourself?
7. If I were you ...
8. Of course I trust you, but ...
9. We'll see.
10. When I was your age...
Six signs of trouble
Abandons friends for new, questionable peers
Sudden drop in school performance
Has extreme mood swings
Lies about whereabouts
Mysterious change in finances
Spends a lot of time alone
