An Examination of Missing Child Cases Utilizing Reality Television Programs

BAŞTUĞ, GÜLBAHAR; GÜLDÜ, ÖZGÜR; Koc, Askin; Evcioglu, Yagmur; Eminoglu, Cansu; Erden, Gulsen

doi:10.1080/24732850.2025.2588777

An Examination of Missing Child Cases Utilizing Reality Television Programs

BAŞTUĞ G., GÜLDÜ Ö., Koc A., Evcioglu Y., Eminoglu C., Erden G.

Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus)

Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
Basım Tarihi: 2025
Doi Numarası: 10.1080/24732850.2025.2588777
Dergi Adı: Journal of Forensic Psychology Research and Practice
Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus
Anahtar Kelimeler: abduction, Missing children, reality TV programs, run away, thrown away
TED Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

The research aimed to examine missing child cases in reality programs and accessible official records in Turkey. Data from TurkStat and recordings of 4,013 reality programs were analyzed. A total of 722 cases involving children aged 0–18 were assessed across time-based, demographic, and outcome dimensions. Age is a major determinant of disappearance. Girls exhibit higher risks for abduction, running away, and subsequent street involvement. Abduction risk is highest in younger children, while runaway and street involvement rise with age. The research can enhance awareness among the public, families, relevant institutions, and professionals and support the development of preventive initiatives.