A Parental Abduction and the Aftermath: A Case Study of an Abducted Child and Implications for Schools and Communities

Parental abductions occur when a child is wrongfully taken, retained, or concealed by a parent depriving the other parent custody or visitation rights. Though often dismissed as a parental dispute, the psychological consequences of victims can be significant and long-term. This case study examines the life of Scott, an abduction victim, over the span of 47 years. His adverse childhood experiences led to predictable mental health issues as an adult. A review of the literature underscores the importance of relationships and the correlation with physical and mental health. Schools are in a unique position to offer services supporting students and mitigating the effects of childhood trauma. Creating an inclusive, safe, trauma-informed environment requires a paradigm shift to a focus on the relational health and growth of students, staff, and parents.