Compared to randomly sampled populations, male runaways evidenced dramatically higher rates of sexual and physical abuse. Sexually abused and nonsexually abused runaways shared characteristics common to runaways in the literature: problem families, high rates of delinquency, depression, tension, low self-image, and history of physical abuse. Compared to runaways who had not been sexually abused, sexually abused runaways responded to their running away in a highly avoidant pattern coupled with extreme withdrawal from all types of interpersonal relationships. These differences are discussed in terms of the sequelae of child sexual abuse and implications for treatment of runaway shelters. 59 references and 6 tables. (Author abstract modified)