Should the parent wait until the child regains his senses and returns on his own initiative?

Again, that depends on the location and maturity of the child. The child may be determined to continue his new life after making a mistake. He may not want to violate his new situation because of various factors:

• The advice he has received
• His emotional backing
• His new feeling of financial security
• His instructions from the legal authorities about his new status

These issues may affect whether the child feels that it is too difficult or too much of a bother to return home. He may decide to remain in the new situation.

Remember that children often think in the present. They do not always consider the long-term effect of their actions. You may not be able to help them understand or realize the magnitude of their actions.

Furthermore, the child may say to himself, "I was wrong. I made a mistake. I feel like a fool for putting myself in this position. I want to cover up for my mistake, so that I don't look so foolish."