See, I think that a desperate mother puts aside her shyness, her fragile ego, her fear of what others might say, her depression, her impairment, her insecurity, because her love for her child and her fear of losing the child give her the strength and courage to do what needs to be done.
I have seen many mothers and fathers plead for their children, all kinds of parents, including those with all the qualities mentioned above. I don't think any of those characteristics are more powerful than a parent's desire to find their child.
Maybe insecurity and fear of criticisim win the day when a parent has to go to a school conference, or show up to a concert, or interact with other parents.
But when your child is missing? That's a whole other level.