A cluster analysis of school refusal behavior: Identification of profiles and risk for school anxiety. (2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gonzálvez, Carolina; Inglés, Cándido J.; Sanmartín, Ricardo; Vicent, María; Fernández-Sogorb, Aitana; García-Fernández, José M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of educational research. Volume 90(2018)
• Page Start: 43
• Page End: 49
• Publication Date: 2018
• Subjects: School refusal behavior -- School anxiety -- Cluster analysis -- School children; Education -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; Curriculum evaluation -- Periodicals; Education -- Periodicals; Program Evaluation -- Periodicals; Éducation -- Évaluation -- Périodiques; Programmes d'études -- Evaluation -- Périodiques; Éducation -- Recherche -- Périodiques; Curriculum evaluation; Education -- Evaluation; Periodicals; 370.72
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijer.2018.05.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0883-0355

Abstract

Highlights: Four school refusal behavior profiles were identified. Mixed Reinforcement group was the most maladaptive profile in terms of school anxiety. Non-School Refusers and Positive Reinforcement groups were more adaptive. Abstract: The aim of this study was to identify the different school refusal behavior profiles and to determine whether these profiles differ from one another based on four situational factors, three response systems and the total score on school anxiety. 1113 Spanish students (52.29% boys) aged 8–12 years ( M = 9.53; SD = 1.10) were recruited. The School Refusal Assessment Scale-Revised and the School Anxiety Inventory for Children were administered. Non-School Refusers, School Refusers by Positive Reinforcement, School Refusers by Negative Reinforcement and School Refusers by Mixed Reinforcement were identified. The Mixed Reinforcement group was the most maladaptive profile in terms of school anxiety as compared to the non-school refusers and positive reinforcement groups. Practical implications of the research are discussed.