Behavioural management of school refusal

Abstract

The management of school refusal can be a challenging problem for educational authorities and mental health professionals. Therefore, we selectively review the literature on the behavioural treatment of school refusal. Initially, we focus on the clinical features, epidemiology and aetiology of school refusal. We then outline a number of behavioural strategies that have been used in the management of school refusal. Finally, we review the research support for the efficacy of behavioural strategies in the treatment of school refusal. A number of clinical and methodological issues are also raised.