School Refusal

Question 1

What is the difference between school refusal and truancy?

Answer 1

School refusal is an unconcealed absence from school (parents are aware). Severe difficulty in attending school often amounting to prolonged absence with parental knowledge.

Question 2

What are the causes of school refusal?

Answer 2

Bullying, fear of failure, unsympathetic teacher, emotionally overprotective parents, high social class, neurotic parents.

Question 3

What is the management of school refusal?

Answer 3

1. Liaise with headteacher, parents and educational psychologist.
2. Tackle primary problem - CBT for anxiety and depression
3. Rapid return with full attendance carries the best prognosis