What is the difference between a runaway and a thrownaway child?

A runaway is defined as a child who leaves home voluntarily, often seeking independence or escape from difficult situations, but still retains some level of agency in their decision to leave. In contrast, a thrownaway child refers to a youth who has been effectively discarded by their guardians or caregivers, indicating a more complex and often traumatic situation where the child feels forced to leave their home due to neglect, abuse, or a complete breakdown in familial relationships.

Importantly, a thrownaway child may not be reported missing because the guardians or parents may be indifferent to their absence, thus complicating the situation further. This distinction highlights the different circumstances surrounding each term, making the understanding of these definitions crucial for addressing their unique needs and potential interventions.