What are the contributing factors of truancy in schools
Truancy is one of the major problems in several countries and authorities are worried because it not only affects the youth but economy as well. The absent rates are soaring up to thirty percent in several cities and this issue is really a matter of concern for the parents and teachers as well. School attendance plays vital role in improving the academic situation of students and it is the only factor to reduce truancy in schools. Kids cannot achieve their academic targets if they are not regular in schools. Teachers and parents must figure out the main causes of truancy and special education must be given to teachers in order to reduce truancy.
It is true that as children go to higher grades controlling truancy in schools becomes more difficult and challenging. Proper support and consideration should be given to every student especially those who are facing troubles in their studies. There are several contributing factors which may cause truancy. Some students have home sickness, some could have learning disability. The causes are endless but teachers or parents must find out the exact cause of it as truancy can only result in frustration and loneliness which further may create lack of interest in studies.
Language barriers, low self-esteem, lack of self-confidence, socially isolated, learning disabilities, emotional or mental instability, poor health, company of non school friends, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy etc are may be several other causes of truancy in schools. Blaming only students is not right because there could be other reasons of truancy from family side as well. Some parents lack the appreciation for education which further cause disinterest in studies. If there are any financial difficulties, ineffective parenting, child abuse, parental convenience or several other causes may results in truancy from students’ side. It is essential to find out the reason so that the problem can be sorted out as soon as possible.
Now, the question arises that can truancy be controlled? Well, yes it can be controlled but special measures should be taken by teachers and parents as well. Different kinds of anti-truancy programs should be implemented and students should be educated about the ill effects of truancy in schools. Truant reporting should be implemented in every school and parents should be notified about every leave taken by a student. So, here one can acquire a clear insight about the causes of truancy. Both educational institutes and parents must keep themselves alert on the activities of a child.