School failure: what is it, symptoms and treatment

Dr Narad Mathura - Paediatrics

Created on: 09-17-2014

Updated on: 01-12-2024

What is school failure?

School failure is a process in which the student gradually falls back behind their peers and experiences a disconnect from compulsory education, which ultimately results in them dropping out before graduation. This process can occur at any time, but it does occur more frequently during ‘transitional’ periods, e.g moving from primary school to high school.

School failure can occur as a result of emotional issues, mental health problems, learning disorders, and inability to meet the standards the school sets. While those who experience school failure may feel it is related to intelligence, there are many factors that lead to failure in school, and this is generally not the case.

What are the signsof school failure?

One easy sign to spot early on is the decline of the student’s marks. Parents or carers may also realise that their child is progressing in their studies at a different pace when doing homework together, when they may see that their child does not understand the information explained in class. In the diagnosis of school failure, it is very important for teachers to collaborate in monitoring school children.

Causes of school failure

School failure affects the emotional and learning characteristics of the child. Therefore, there are several causes that can lead to school failure:

Intellectual: Problems to adapt intellectually in a school environment can occur in children who have a learning difficulty as well as in gifted children due to the lack of a solid base in previous courses.

Motivational: Even if the student has the ability to acquire the knowledge presented in class, a lack of motivation may lead to them not taking advantage of this knowledge.

Study techniques: Some children have difficulties when it comes to getting into a habit of studying, or do not know how to study to get good results.

Emotional capacities: Children with problems at home, overprotective or very strict parents, hyperactive children with emotional deficiencies, or children who are going through a difficult time.

Educational environment: Sometimes, the organisation of numerous classes or the professional and emotional qualities of teachers influences the child’s results.

Level of demand: It is important that each child develops according to their abilities and level of intellectual maturity, without underestimating them with punishments or low grades.

Prevention of school failure

The best way to prevent school failure is to address the problems which present, to adapt to the level of learning before the child experiences further problemsand loses the urge to continue with their learning.

Solutions for school failure

Understanding the cause behild school failure is fundamental for its treatment. To determine the cause and find a solution, apsychologist can be consulted, who will deal directly with the child and provide solutions for the problems that prevent them from furthering their learning.