The workshop examines child and systemic factors underlying school refusal behaviors. It explores the etiology of school refusal and the functional differences between these behaviors and truancy. Clinical considerations and associated disorders will be reviewed. It also focuses on the practical application of evidence-based strategies to address the functional behaviors associated with school refusal. The workshop includes lecture, a review of case studies, and discussion with participants. 

Workshop Objectives:

This session will help participants

1. understand the definition and clinical features of school refusal,
2. identify differences between school refusal and truancy,
3. learn social and emotional factors related to and mental health correlates of school refusal,
4. obtain strategies for assessing and evaluating school refusal behaviors, and
5. utilize evidence-based interventions to address individual and systemic factors related to school refusal behaviors.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Contributors to attendance problems at school. School policies and strategies to improve attendance.

Practical Tools

Presented cases will discuss history and current issues, methods of evaluation, and individual and systemic concerns. Participants will engage in role plays and consultation on cases from both the presenter and audience to enhance current practices.