Apparently, the mother has only been able to see Shannen through a one-way mirror. Shannen knew the mother was behind the mirror but was unable to see her. Doesn't that say something? I have visions of the mother looking straight at the child and the look could say it all.............that's if there is something to hide!
I don't think the parents knew where she was but I definitely think they're now worrying about something. Was Shannen being abused, and did they know about it perhaps? One thing is for sure, if the best place for a 9 year old girl in these circumstances was with her Mum - she WOULD be with her!