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School can be both an exciting and a challenging experience. A young person’s experience of school is influenced by many factors, such as peer relationships, learning ability and family life. Problems in these areas can lead a young person to develop a negative experience of school. Actively avoiding school, either by not attending or not staying for the duration of the day, is known as school refusal.
School refusal can occur at any time during a young person’s schooling, however it is more likely to occur during high school. An Australian study prepared by Youth Support Coordinators highlights the increased likelihood of school refusal during periods of transitions, such as the move from primary to high school or the move from one school to another (2009). Australian research suggests that up to 9% of school population may experience school refusal at some point in time (Withers, 2004).
There can be multiple factors contributing to school refusal among children. Two significant factors appear to be experiences of anxiety and bullying (Kearney, 2007). Anxiety often manifests as physical symptoms, such as headaches and nausea, which can make it difficult for parents to distinguish whether their child’s complaint is medical or psychological in nature. Seeking medical advice and monitoring the timing of physical complaints can help discern the nature of the complaints. Being bullied at school is also another major contributor to children becoming fearful of school and thus attempting to avoid school (The Monash School Refusal Program). Other common factors include:
- Difficulty in peer relationships
- Fear/difficulties with teachers
- Transition to high school
- Family stress
- Traumatic life event
- Academic problems
Warning signs that may indicate school refusal
At school
- Frequent and unexplained absences from school
- Frequent lateness to school
- Absences on significant days (e.g., days on which tests or specific classes are scheduled)
- Frequent requests to go to sick bay
- Frequent requests to call home or to go home during the day
In the home
- Complaints of physical symptoms when getting reading for school, e.g. headaches
- A reluctance or refusal to get dressed for school
- Negative comments about school
- A reluctance to talk openly about their experiences at school Continue reading
Sources
- Essential Kids
- Image: Herald Sun
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