Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of youths and parents seeking psychological treatment for school attendance problems

BACKGROUND: Knowledge of school attendance problems (SAPs) is needed to inform treatments targeting SAPs and protecting youths from negative outcomes associated with SAPs. OBJECTIVES: This study examined the school absence, absence categories (i.e., absence due to illness, excused, non-excused), sociodemographic characteristics, and mental health problems among youths seeking psychological treatment for SAPs. METHODS: The study used a cross-sectional design. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of 152 help-seeking youths with SAPs (i.e., >10% absenteeism) and their parents were examined. The data were derived from the baseline assessment conducted before treatment start. RESULTS: Older youths, youths with mental health problems, and youths whose parents had mental health problems exhibited higher levels of absence. Lower levels of non-excused absence were found among youths with highly educated fathers, and youths living with both parents. Many youths had clinical levels of anxiety, depression, or ‘emotional and behavioral difficulties’. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the need for early intervention, addressing a broad range of mental health problems. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03459677.