When School Becomes an Unwanted Challenge
Challenges in the educational setting can have long-lasting impacts on young individuals. For some teenagers in Germany, the idea of attending school becomes an insurmountable hurdle. School absenteeism is a concerning issue that affects many and can result in dire consequences, including poor academic performance, a lack of school-leaving certificate, and psychological and social problems. The University of Leipzig emphasizes the severity of this issue, highlighting that mental illness, anxiety disorders, and school phobia can contribute to school absenteeism. A project in Bochum is stepping up to help these young people overcome their challenges.
Philipp, a cheerful 13-year-old, shares his experiences of bullying since the third grade. Constant stomach aches and threats of violence ultimately led him to drop out of sixth grade. His classmate Theresa, a reserved 15-year-old, also struggled with school attendance, dealing with panic attacks and stomach-churning anxieties. These two young individuals are just a few of the eight adolescents benefiting from the Unicus day group in Bochum.
For these teenagers, school had become an unbearable experience. Their regular schools recognized their need for support and released them for a year to attend the Unicus day group with the goal of reentering school once they've regained stability. Some have been out of school for months, and others for years. While they are working on their academic progress, the primary focus is on social skills like presenting in front of others, communicating in group settings, and overcoming shyness.
The Need for Support and Prevention
Many factors contribute to truancy and school absenteeism, including mental health issues, anxiety disorders, and bullying. Neglect and aggressive behavior can also play a role in these children's experiences. These young people often lack the necessary support, leading to chronic struggles in the educational environment.
Eva-Maria Hagenguth, a social education worker at Unicus, shares that this isn't a matter of missing a few days of school. The students we are addressing here are completely out of the educational system and out of touch with their social group. In extreme cases, they might not have left their rooms for up to two years.
Researcher Heinrich Ricking from the University of Leipzig suggests that around three to five percent of secondary school pupils face chronic absenteeism. Left unaddressed, these issues can lead to further consequences, like a decrease in academic performance, a lack of school-leaving certificate, poor career prospects, and social and psychological problems.
Despite the growing awareness of this issue, bullying, truancy, and school absenteeism remain trivialized in some settings, often resulting in missed warning signs and delayed intervention.
Empowerment and Reintegration
Unicus aims to empower these young people and help them reconnect with the educational system. The project utilizes various educational interventions to promote emotional and social stabilization, boost motivation, and facilitate the young people's reintegration into school.
In addition to typical school activities, the program includes weekly schedules for group and individual work, as well as therapist-led support sessions. Pedro chooses an orca to represent his mood in one exercise, explaining that the orca can be nice but will defend itself if attacked.
These activities aim to improve self-esteem, build social skills, and provide a supportive environment to encourage these young people to pursue their return to education. For example, they engage in team challenges, presentations, group projects, and therapeutic activities to promote growth and confidence.
International Perspectives on Bullying and School Absenteeism
Research on bullying and its impact on absenteeism is an active field of study. Psychologists worldwide are exploring various strategies to prevent bullying and support young individuals struggling with its effects.
For instance, educational programs incorporating presentations, role-play, and discussions can help promote understanding and empathy within schools. Implementing School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) encourages a positive school climate and reduces disciplinary exclusions.
Additionally, interventions such as psychotherapy and parental involvement can help victims of bullying overcome their challenges and develop positive coping skills. Lastly, creating a safe and supportive school environment through security technologies and school safety officers can contribute to reducing incidents of bullying and absenteeism.
Conclusion
Confronting bullying, mental health challenges, and school absenteeism requires interconnected efforts from parents, educators, psychologists, and policy-makers. By addressing these issues head-on, we can empower young individuals to overcome their struggles and embrace their educational journey.
Sources
- The International Bullying Prevention Association. (2012). Bullying Prevention Guidebook.
- National Resource Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments. (2018). School-wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (SWPBS).
- Brower, L. W., Gardner, A., Hamilton, J. P., and Green-Dragon, D. (2017). Evidence-Based Settings and Practices in Elementary and Middle Schools. American Psychological Association.
