Factors Associated with Trauma Symptoms Among Runaway/Homeless Adolescents

Runaway/homeless youth often suffer from exposure to chronic family distress and confront numerous traumatic events that may produce symptoms of PTSD. This study evaluated runaway/homeless youth's PTSD symptoms and associated factors. Data were collected at youth emergency shelters. Ninety-eight percent of participants had elevated PTSD symptom scores. Although use of inhalants and LSD was associated with PTSD symptoms, only depression, anxiety, and dissociation, mother's ecstasy or LSD use, youth's worry about family relationships, and poor family communication predicted higher PTSD scores. Runaway/homeless youth entering emergency shelters services must be evaluated concerning trauma and associated comorbid symptoms.