School refusal: Considerations for the primary care NP

School refusal refers to child- or adolescent-motivated refusal to attend school or remain in school for the duration of the school day. Importantly, the child or adolescent does not conceal their absence from school from their caregivers. Root causes for school refusal include anxiety, mood disorders, untreated learning disorders, and social difficulties. Long-term outcomes of school refusal include further social withdrawal, ongoing mental health issues, and unemployment. This article reviews the differences between school refusal and other types of chronic absenteeism, and it describes behaviors that may manifest in a child or adolescent who avoids attending school. The primary care provider's role in evaluation and treatment of this population is discussed.