Addressing School Refusal Behavior: Suggestions for Frontline Professionals

Abstract

School refusal behavior refers to a student's refusal to attend school or difficulty remaining in classes for an entire day. The problem is pervasive and exacts a heavy toll on students and school systems if left unaddressed. Although assessment and treatment protocols have been developed for this population, they are not always amenable to school-based settings with limited resources. This article briefly reviews the common characteristics of youths with school refusal behavior, outlines assessment and treatment protocols, and offers suggestions for frontline personnel who first address cases of school refusal behavior. In particular, suggestions are made with respect to initial engagement of family members, assessment, intervention, and referral and follow-up.