Being kicked out of home is a traumatic experience that can have lasting effects on an individual’s life. According to the National Runaway Safeline, an estimated 1.6 million youth in the United States experience homelessness each year. Of these, nearly 40% are kicked out of home by their parents or guardians.
Causes of Getting Kicked Out of Home
There are many reasons why a young person might be kicked out of home, including:
- Behavioral problems: This is the most common reason for youth homelessness. Children and teens who exhibit disruptive or aggressive behaviors may be seen as a threat to the family and may be asked to leave.
- Substance abuse: Parents may kick out a child or teen who is using drugs or alcohol. This is often done in an attempt to protect the other members of the family from the negative consequences of addiction.
- Sexual orientation or gender identity: LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately likely to be kicked out of home. This is often due to prejudice and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people.
- Other factors: Other factors that can lead to a young person being kicked out of home include mental illness, poverty, and domestic violence.
The Impact of Getting Kicked Out of Home
Getting kicked out of home can have a devastating impact on a young person’s life. Youth who are kicked out of home are more likely to experience homelessness, poverty, and mental health problems. They are also more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and prostitution.
In addition to the immediate impact of being kicked out of home, there are also long-term consequences. Youth who are kicked out of home are more likely to have difficulty completing their education, finding a job, and forming healthy relationships. They are also more likely to experience chronic health problems and early death.
What to Do If You Get Kicked Out of Home
If you have been kicked out of home, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you get back on your feet.
1. Find a safe place to stay. This could be with a friend or family member, in a shelter, or on the street. If you are on the street, try to find a place that is safe and well-lit.
2. Get help. There are many organizations that can help you get back on your feet. These organizations can provide you with food, shelter, clothing, and counseling.
3. Take care of your health. Getting kicked out of home can be stressful, so it is important to take care of your health. Eat healthy foods, get regular exercise, and get enough sleep.
4. Get involved in positive activities. This could include volunteering, taking classes, or joining a club. Getting involved in positive activities can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.
5. Don’t give up. Getting kicked out of home can be a setback, but it is not the end of your life. With the right help and support, you can overcome this challenge and build a successful future for yourself.
Legal Rights of Youth Who Are Kicked Out of Home
In most states, youth who are kicked out of home have certain legal rights. These rights include:
- The right to food and shelter. Parents and guardians are legally obligated to provide their children with food and shelter, even if the child has been kicked out of home.
- The right to education. All children have the right to a free public education, regardless of their housing status.
- The right to healthcare. All children have the right to healthcare, regardless of their housing status.
- The right to be safe from abuse and neglect. No one has the right to abuse or neglect a child, even if the child has been kicked out of home.
If you have been kicked out of home and your rights are being violated, you can contact a legal aid organization for help.
Resources for Youth Who Are Kicked Out of Home
There are many resources available to help youth who are kicked out of home. These resources include:
- Shelters: Shelters provide temporary housing for youth who are homeless.
- Transitional living programs: Transitional living programs provide housing and support services for youth who are transitioning to independence.
- Counseling services: Counseling services can help youth who are experiencing emotional or mental health problems.
- Educational services: Educational services can help youth who are struggling in school catch up and complete their education.
- Job training programs: Job training programs can help youth develop the skills they need to find a job.
If you have been kicked out of home, please know that there is help available. You can contact a local service provider or call the National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-RUNAWAY for assistance.
Conclusion
Getting kicked out of home can be a traumatic experience, but it is important to know that there is help available. With the right help and support, you can overcome this challenge and build a successful future for yourself.