Published in the Psychology, Crime & Law journal, the new study offers one of the first detailed explorations of the psychological and personal experiences of adults who go missing multiple times. It reveals how returning home without meaningful support leaves people increasingly at risk, while placing pressure on police, health, and social care services.

The work stems from the PhD research of Dr Claire Taylor, carried out at Abertay and now continued at UHI Perth, alongside Professor Penny Woolnough and Professor Sheila Cunningham from Abertay’s Department of Sociological and Psychological Sciences.

Based on in‑depth interviews, the study identifies five recurring themes behind repeat disappearances: childhood instability; mental‑health difficulties and a loss of personal control; escalating stress; a long‑standing desire to escape; and the significant challenges of returning home without adequate support.

The team argues that understanding these patterns can help police and partner agencies identify those most at risk much earlier, ultimately reducing the likelihood of future incidents.

Dr Taylor said: “Repeated disappearances are rarely about a single moment or decision. They are tied to years of instability, emotional distress, and overwhelming pressures. If we want to reduce repeat missing incidents, we need to understand what drives them and provide better support when people return.”

Returning home emerged as one of the most challenging parts of the cycle, with many of those interviewed saying they felt judged, dismissed or met with frustration by family, friends or professionals. The research team argues that a difficult or unsupported return home can increase the likelihood of another disappearance.

Dr Woolnough added: “Some received no follow‑up support at all – no mental‑health intervention, no conversation about what had happened, and no opportunity to address the underlying issues that had led them to leave.

“By focusing support on this critical stage, agencies could help break the cycle of repeat disappearances, easing pressure on police and better safeguarding vulnerable adults. Better, more targeted support at this stage has real potential to reduce demand on police and improve outcomes for vulnerable people.”