School Refusal: Conceptualization, Leading Factors, and Intervention

Abstract

This article discusses the concept of school refusal (SR) and how it differs from the use of different terms, multiple possible causes of SR, and interventions for SR. The argument about the differences between SR, school refusal, and school phobia is crucial because it influences the socially examined attitudes of school refusers. The controversy over the scope of what is covered by the terms school refusal, truancy, and school phobia represents a more refined perception of school refusal by parents and the education system and reinforces the focus on vulnerable groups. Although no conclusive conclusions have been made about the causes of school refusal, researchers have identified differences in their social functioning. Previous research on interventions for SR has mainly focused on cognitive-behavioral treatments, but multi-systemic interventions apparently show more potential to solve the problem of SR. In addition, there is still a lack of interventions related to the new crown outbreak in 2019, which could be a new trigger element for SR.