When an adolescent begins to engage in school refusal, parents are often confused as to why the problem is occurring. In many cases, avoiding class is an expression of depression, stress, or anxiety. If your son or daughter argues with you about attendance or has excessive sick days, it’s time to find solutions so they can succeed emotionally and academically. 

Understand Problematic Behavior 

It’s not uncommon for teens and preteens to need an occasional day off. However, there are specific behavior and response patterns that counselors and health professionals consider abnormal. These include extreme, recurring reactions to attending school, such as crying and panic attacks. Some children experience physical symptoms, like stomach pain, nausea, or headaches. 

Other troublesome signs include long-term avoidance and evidence of excessive truancy or tardiness. Students may frequently visit the school nurse or be found wandering around campus. Some parents and their kids engage in daily arguments about attendance. 

Determine the Cause 

There are many reasons why adolescents engage in school refusal. Some suffer from a psychiatric disorder or drug abuse. Others attempt to avoid harassment or bullying. Stress or anxiety related to academics or sports can also trigger avoidance.

Talk to your child about their challenges. While some kids can communicate the problem, others aren’t sure why they feel nervous or anxious. When in doubt, make an appointment with a mental health professional or primary care doctor. These professionals will confirm or rule out a variety of physical and/or emotional conditions. 

Seek Support & Treatment 

Once you take the first step to receive care, you will understand more about your son or daughter’s needs. Treatment may include cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, social skills training, and talk therapy.  

A therapeutic, specialized school or private academy can provide proven therapy techniques, customized academic plans, and parental involvement. When used in combination, your child will increase confidence, develop life skills, and develop a more positive attitude toward learning and peers. 

By taking a proactive approach and involving doctors, therapists, and possibly a specialized school, you will find the right solutions for your child. If you and/or your child desires a new academic option, Logos School in Saint Louis, MO, can help your student find success when it’s difficult for them to attend a traditional setting. Logos has a 98% graduation rate and 92% of graduates go to college or enter the workforce. To discuss adolescent school refusal with the Admissions Department, call (314) 997-7002. For information about therapeutics, academics, and transitional services, visit their website. Explore parent and student reviews by following them on Facebook and Twitter.