Application of stress and coping models to runaway youths

Runaway youths are at high risk of developing stress, and it is critical to improve our conceptualization of the relationships between stress and coping for them. Thus, this paper compares two theoretical models of stress and coping: (a) the Resiliency Model (RM) of Family Stress, Adjustment, and Adaptation; and (b) the Lazarus and Folkman’s Stress, Appraisal, and Coping Model (SACM). Stress and coping among runaway youths are explained through the application of these two theoretical models. The RM explains stress and coping among “throwaway” youths and at-risk youths living with their families. The SACM is better suited for explaining runaway youths who are currently living in shelters or on the streets, as well as “systems” or “independent” youths. This theoretical framework can be utilized in planning and developing crisis assessment and interventions for runaway youths experiencing high levels of stress.