School refusal

What it is, why it occurs and how to treat it

School refusal is when a child or young person resists going to school for an extended period of time. This may be due to anxiety, stress or other psychological challenges. School refusal is not the same as truancy; it is about a perceived inability to meet the demands of everyday school life, often due to strong feelings of fear or overwhelm.

Causes of school refusal

School refusal can have many underlying causes, including:

Fear: Social anxiety, separation anxiety or fear of specific situations at school.
Perfectionism: Excessive fear of failure or not living up to expectations.
Bullying issues: Negative social experiences or bullying at school.
Learning disabilities: The experience of inadequate coping can lead to the child feeling overwhelmed.
Family dynamics: Insecurity at home or other relational challenges can also play a role.

Holistic approach to school refusal

Helping a child with school refusal requires patience, co-operation and a tailored plan. As a psychologist, I offer evidence-based methods and close follow-up of both children and parents to ensure lasting changes.

If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment, please contact us for an informal chat. Together we will find the way forward!