How to stop school refusal for good

Our psychologists at Scope are experts in therapy for school refusal, working collaboratively with children and parents, and offering a variety of evidence-based therapy approaches to address anxiety. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate therapy can make a substantial difference in helping children overcome their anxiety and return them to a fulfilling school life.

What is school refusal?

When a child constantly avoids attending school, it can trigger a series of challenges that impact their academic performance. School refusal, though not classified as a disorder, is a recognised difficulty that impacts a substantial number of children. It’s characterised by extended absences, lateness or repeated missed classes at school, all driven by intense feelings of anxiety. Unlike truancy, school refusal stems from genuine distress, with affected children displaying visible stress when faced with the prospect of attending school. This article delves into the intricacies of school refusal, its prevalence, underlying causes, and the role of therapy in helping children overcome this challenging experience.

School refusal is more than just a reluctance to attend school; it is a complex emotional response driven by anxiety. Affected children may experience severe distress, manifesting in behaviours such as anger, defiance, tears, and reluctance to attend school. These emotions can lead to prolonged absences, frequent tardiness, and missed classes. The act of refusing school is often influenced by intense feelings of fear, separation anxiety, social anxiety, or generalised anxiety, with up to 80% of school refusers meeting criteria for some form of anxiety disorder.

The prevalence and age patterns of school refusal

School refusal affects a notable portion of the student population, occurring in approximately 1% to 5% of all children. Certain age groups are particularly susceptible, with peaks around the ages of 5 to 7 and again from 11 to 14. These periods correspond to significant transitions in a child's educational journey. The initial transition from kindergarten to primary school, followed by the transition from primary to secondary school, can bring about heightened levels of anxiety due to increased academic demands and more complex social relationships. It's important to note that while school refusal may wane during school-free periods, it resurfaces during subsequent transition periods.

Common reasons for school refusal

Understanding the underlying causes of school refusal is crucial for effective intervention. Several factors can contribute to a child's decision to avoid school:

• Fear of Loss: Children may fear losing a parent or caregiver, making separation anxiety a driving force behind their reluctance to attend school.
• Parental Protection: A child might feel the need to protect a parent, leading them to stay home instead of attending school.
• Jealousy or Loneliness: Siblings being at home while the child goes to school can lead to feelings of jealousy or loneliness.
• Transitions: Periods of transition, such as moving to a new school or advancing to a higher grade, can trigger anxiety and reluctance to attend.
• Illness: A child's own health concerns or concerns for a family member's health can contribute to school avoidance.
• Bullying: Experiencing bullying at school can lead to a hostile environment, prompting children to avoid it altogether.
• Social Isolation: A lack of close friends or social connections at school can intensify feelings of anxiety and isolation.
• Negative Teacher Relationships: Disliking a teacher or experiencing conflict in teacher-student relationships can discourage school attendance.
• Learning Difficulties: Struggling with academics can lead to frustration and avoidance, as children might feel overwhelmed by the classroom environment.

Therapy for school refusal

Therapy offers a promising path for helping children to overcome the challenges and anxieties associated with school. Our psychologists at Scope are experts in child therapy for school refusal, working collaboratively with the child and parents, and offering a variety of evidence-based therapy approaches to address anxiety. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate therapy can make a substantial difference in helping children overcome their anxiety and return them to a fulfilling school life. Therapy equips children and parents with the tools they need to manage anxiety, foster resilience and build a strong foundation for their academic growth.

• Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This therapeutic approach helps children identify and challenge their negative thought patterns, teaching them coping strategies and relaxation techniques to manage anxiety.
• Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing situations related to school can help children desensitise themselves to their fears and anxieties.
• Family Therapy: Involving the family can help create a supportive environment and address any family dynamics that might be contributing to the child's reluctance to attend school.
• Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions allow therapists to tailor their approach to the child's specific needs, providing a safe space to explore and manage their emotions.
• Social Skills Training: This type of therapy helps children build confidence in social interactions, reducing social anxiety and feelings of isolation.

School refusal is a multifaceted challenge that can significantly impact a child's wellbeing, education, and future prospects. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate therapy can make a substantial difference in helping children overcome their anxiety and return to a fulfilling school life. By addressing the emotional aspects of school refusal, therapy equips children with the tools they need to manage their anxieties, foster resilience, and build a strong foundation for their academic and personal growth. For support with school refusal, please contact our friendly client support team.