Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/70005
Title: The experiences of students refusing school : perceptions and responses
Authors: Pace, Katya (2004)
Keywords: Education -- Malta
Separation anxiety in children -- Malta
Absentee landlordism -- Malta
Issue Date: 2004
Citation: Pace, K. (2004). The experiences of students refusing school : perceptions and responses (Bachelor's dissertation).
Abstract: The study centres on the experiences of students having difficulties in attending school, the responses of the parents towards this difficulty and how this difficulty affected their family life. In addition, the study explores the perceptions and responses of the school staff and the present support systems in the schools concerned. Semi-structured interviews were used to investigate the perceptions and responses of the students, their parents and educators. The author compared the experiences of three students together with their parents and educators. The precipitating factors of school refusal indicated in this study were verbal bullying by peers, change of schools, personal problems, negative attitudes from teachers and separation from the mother. Appropriate support from parents and guidance teacher was reported in two of the cases. The students' school-related difficulties had sometimes a positive effect on the family and sometimes a negative one. Teachers perceived their students' absenteeism differently: some teachers acknowledged the emotional needs of these students while others perceived it as lack of motivation in schooling. In order to find a remedy to the school-related anxieties there should be a good relationship among all the parties involved. The involvement of school staff seems to be a determining factor for school refusers. Recommendations were made with regards to creating more awareness amongst school staff Proficient strategies designed by the Education Division should be administered accordingly. Guidance teachers should not only assist the students but also collaborate and help parents to facilitate the return of the student to normal school attendance.
Description: B.ED.(HONS)
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/70005
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - FacEdu - 1953-2007

Files in This Item:
File Description SizeFormat 
Pace_Katya_2004.pdf
  Restricted Access
2.93 MBAdobe PDFView/Open Request a copy


Items in OAR@UM are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.