Homeless youth: statement of problem and suggested policies.

Abstract

There are an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 adolescents living on the streets with no supervision, nurturance or regular assistance from a parent or responsible adult. These young people are not "Huck Finns" seeking adventure but have been forced into this lifestyle and frame of mind. The reasons range from family dysfunctions such as abuse, sexual exploitation, neglect, and abandonment to inaction at the "system" level with regard to the overburdened child protective system, inadequate minimum wage, and lack of affordable housing opportunities. The consequences of this national problem are devastating and must be responded to.