Youth homelessness is a significant social issue addressed in a number of developed countries, central issues involve breakdown in family relationships or other issues that lead to the young person leaving home, while research on "street children" is generally focused on developing countries. Additionally, the term "street children" includes street workers who are not actually homeless.
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The exact definition of youth homelessness varies by region. In the United States, a homeless youth is someone who is under the age of 21 and is unable to safely live at a relative, and has no other safe alternative living arrangement. In Australia, there are three categories of homelessness which include those who live from one emergency shelter to another (in homeless shelters of 'couch surfing') as well as those living in accommodation that falls below minimum community standards (boarding houses and caravan parks).
Australia
Youth homelessness in Australia is a significant social issue, affecting tens of thousands of young people in the country. In 2006, the Australian government estimate, focusing on homeless school children, found some 20,000 homeless youth between the ages of 12 and 18. Another estimate find approximately 44,000 homeless Australians under the age of 25.
Activists maintain that the majority of young people left home because of family breakdowns, often created by domestic violence and abuse. An estimate by Swinburne University found that over $600 million is spent each year on health and justice services for homeless youth.
Researchers have studied the prevalence of psychological distress and mental illness among homeless youth in Australia.
Early intervention services have been regarded by some experts as a way to curb youth homelessness. Other researchers have examined the potential solution of youth foyers.
Canada
In Canada, youth homelessness is recognized as a significant social issue, however, no nationwide strategy or study has been conducted.
Some researchers focus on the effects of homelessness on young LGBT Canadians. Others focus on the general rates of poor health among Canada's homeless youth.
United States
In the United States, homeless youth are a varied group. Some researchers maintain that some two million young people in America are homeless.