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The Back2School modular cognitive behavioral intervention for youths with problematic school absenteeism: study
Mikael Thastum1, Daniel Bach Johnsen2, Wendy K Silverman3
1Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark. mikael@psy.au.dk.
This study evaluates the Back2School program, a cognitive behavioral therapy intervention, to reduce school absenteeism and psychological distress in children. Findings will inform wider implementation for improved student attendance and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- School absenteeism (SA) is linked to anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, academic failure, and long-term problems.
- SA is a significant predictor of school dropout and future social, work, and health challenges.
- Early intervention is crucial for addressing SA and its associated negative outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the preliminary effectiveness of the Back2School intervention for improving school attendance.
- To evaluate the impact of Back2School on reducing psychological problems in children experiencing SA.
- To compare the Back2School program with treatment as usual (TAU) in a randomized controlled trial.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 160 children aged 7-16 years.
- Participants were assigned to either the Back2School intervention or treatment as usual (TAU).
- Data collected at baseline, post-intervention, and at 3-month and 1-year follow-ups, measuring school attendance and psychosocial functioning via multiple reports.
Main Results:
- The study is designed to provide initial evidence on the effectiveness of the Back2School intervention.
- Key outcomes include daily school attendance rates.
- Secondary outcomes encompass youth psychosocial functioning, quality of life, bullying experiences, self-efficacy, and teacher-parent collaboration.
Conclusions:
- This research will offer crucial empirical data on the efficacy of a structured treatment program for youth with school absenteeism.
- Positive findings could support the broader implementation and testing of the Back2School program in large-scale school health trials.
- The study aims to establish a foundation for evidence-based interventions addressing school attendance and mental health in children.
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