Chronic absenteeism, defined as students missing more than 10% of school, has surged post-COVID-19, with 28% of U.S. students affected. Factors include rising mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, reported by 16% and 12% of absent students, respectively. This trend can escalate to serious school refusal, where students become increasingly avoidant and resistant to attending school. Parents often struggle with the decision to force attendance amidst emotional distress; yielding can weaken accountability and worsen the situation, leading to familial conflict and further absenteeism.
The increase in chronic absenteeism among students following the COVID-19 pandemic is notably linked to mental health issues, particularly anxiety and depression.
As absenteeism escalates into school refusal, parents often face a tough choice: force a child to confront their anxiety or allow them to stay home.
The conflict over school attendance can lead to parental fear and compliance, which ultimately undermines a child's responsibility and exacerbates their avoidance behavior.
Chronic absenteeism, now affecting 28% of students, is a clear signal of the urgent mental health needs within the educational system.
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