School Refusal
School refusal, also known as school avoidance or school phobia, is a behavior commonly observed in children and adolescents where they resist attending school or experience significant distress and anxiety related to going to school.
It is not simply a display of normal separation anxiety or occasional resistance to school, but rather a persistent and severe pattern of school avoidance that can lead to significant academic, social, and emotional impairment.
Engagement in therapy with a psychologist can help your child with their school refusal.
Symptoms
School refusal can manifest in different ways, including:
Physical Complaints: Children may complain of physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, nausea, or fatigue when it is time to go to school. These complaints are often not related to any underlying medical condition and are primarily driven by anxiety or distress.
Emotional Distress: Children may display intense emotional distress, such as excessive worry, fear, or panic, when faced with the prospect of attending school. They may cry, become irritable, or have tantrums in response to attempts to get them to go to school.
Absenteeism or Tardiness: Children may consistently refuse to attend school or may exhibit frequent tardiness, resulting in significant missed school days or disruptions in their academic routine.
Attempts to Avoid or Escape School: Children may engage in various behaviors to avoid or escape school, such as prolonged rituals or negotiations to delay school attendance, frequent visits to the nurse's office, or attempts to leave school premises during the day.
School refusal can have multiple underlying causes, including anxiety disorders, social difficulties, academic struggles, bullying, family issues, trauma, or specific fears related to school. It is essential to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to school refusal to provide appropriate support and intervention.
Treatment
Interventions for school refusal typically involve a multidisciplinary approach, including involvement from mental health professionals, educators, and parents. Treatment may include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT techniques can help children develop coping strategies for managing anxiety related to school attendance, challenging negative thoughts, and gradually exposing them to feared situations in a systematic and supportive manner.
School-Based Interventions: Collaboration with school staff and implementing strategies to create a supportive and accommodating school environment can be crucial. This may involve developing individualized education plans, accommodations, and targeted interventions to address academic, social, or emotional challenges.
Parental Involvement and Support: Parents play a vital role in supporting their child through school refusal. Building a supportive and collaborative relationship with parents can help address concerns, provide structure and routines, and reinforce positive behaviors.
Addressing Underlying Issues: Identifying and addressing any underlying issues contributing to school refusal, such as anxiety, bullying, or family difficulties, is important. This may involve individual or family therapy, addressing academic challenges, or working with other professionals as needed.
Gradual Reintegration and Return-to-School Plan: Developing a gradual reintegration plan that allows the child to ease back into school attendance can be helpful. This plan involves gradually increasing exposure to school while providing support, encouragement, and monitoring progress.
Early intervention and a comprehensive approach involving collaboration between psychologists, educators, and parents can help effectively address school refusal and support the child in returning to a positive and productive school experience.
If you would like more information, or to book an initial appointment, please contact the practice.