Why do children with school phobia not want to go to school? Symptoms, causes, and recommendations for parents...
What is School Phobia?
School phobia (or school refusal) is when a child experiences intense fear, anxiety, or physical complaints about going to school.
These children usually fear separation, not school itself. Morning nausea, stomach aches, crying, or phrases like "can I not go today?" are commonly heard.
Research shows that school phobia typically emerges during transition times such as 6-7 years (starting elementary school) and 12-13 years (middle school period) (Egger et al., Am J Psychiatry, 2003).
💬 Symptoms
- Psychosomatic symptoms like stomach aches and nausea before going to school in the morning
- Crying at the school gate, not wanting to separate
- Excessive attachment to parent and fear of being alone
- Avoiding talking about school, declining academic performance
- These symptoms decrease during holidays or weekends
🎯 Causes
School phobia often stems from separation anxiety, low self-confidence, academic difficulties, or stressful events at home (divorce, moving, illness, etc.).
In some children, negative experiences at school (bullying, conflict with teacher, exclusion) can trigger this condition.
👪 Recommendations for Parents
- Approach with empathy: "You have to go!" is less reassuring than "I understand you're struggling, but we can overcome this together."
- Make a gradual return: Create a readjustment process by having the child stay at school for short periods.
- Create a routine: Make morning wake-up, breakfast, and goodbye times regular.
- Communicate with the teacher: Monitor how the child feels at school, cooperate with the teacher.
- Support instead of punishment: Blaming the child for their fear increases anxiety.
Conclusion
School phobia is a condition that can be overcome with the right approach and patience.
Trying to understand your child's fear rather than dismissing it is the first step in rebuilding their sense of security.
Need Support?
If you need support in this process or information about psychological counseling to help your child cope with anxiety, please contact us.
📚 References:
- Egger, H. L., et al. (2003). School Refusal and Psychiatric Disorders. Am J Psychiatry, 160(5).
- Kearney, C. A. (2008). School absenteeism and school refusal behavior. Clin Psychol Rev, 28(3).
- Heyne, D., et al. (2001). School Refusal: Epidemiology and Management. Paediatr Drugs, 3(10).
