The effects of social isolation on children and young people can lead to a range of issues that contribute to absenteeism:
Impacts of Social Isolation on School Attendance
Mental Health Issues
Socially isolated children and young people are more prone to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, which can make it difficult for them to attend school regularly. Feelings of loneliness and being disconnected from peers can lead to low self-esteem, further discouraging school attendance.
Lack of Engagement
Without social interactions, children and young people may feel disengaged from school activities and less motivated to attend classes. Socially isolated children and young people may not participate in group work or seek help from teachers and peers, leading to academic struggles and avoidance of school.
Physical Health
Social isolation can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach-aches and fatigue, which can be used as reasons to miss school.
Social Emotional & Behaviour Issues
Social isolation can lead to increased truancy as children and young people try to avoid uncomfortable social situations.
In some cases, isolated children and young people may act out in attempts to gain attention, resulting in suspensions or expulsions.
Safety Concerns
Socially isolated children and young people are often targets of bullying, making school a hostile environment they prefer to avoid.
Isolation can extend online contributing to a child or young person’s reluctance to attend school.
Strategies to Support
To address the impacts of social isolation on school attendance, schools and ELCs in Dumfries & Galloway can implement various strategies:
Promoting Inclusive Environments
Schools can create inclusive environments that encourage all students to participate and feel valued.
Implementing comprehensive anti-bullying / respectful relationship policies and practice can help reduce the incidences of bullying that contribute to social isolation.
Partnership Working
Providing access to school counsellors and mental health professionals can help students cope with feelings of isolation and related mental health issues.
Mental Health Support in Schools – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
CAMHS – Dumfries & Galloway Health & Social Care (dghscp.co.uk)
Establishing peer mentoring programs can help isolated students build connections and feel supported.
Engagement Activities
Encouraging participation in clubs, sports, and other extracurricular activities can help students develop social connections.
Active Schools – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
Offering programs that teach social skills can help students interact more effectively with peers.
Meta-skills Toolkit – Skills Development Scotland
Family and Community Involvement
Engaging parents in their children’s education and social lives can provide additional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Family Learning Framework | Resources | National Improvement Hub (education.gov.scot)
Collaborating with community organisations to offer after-school programs and social events can help students build a broader support network.
Youth Work in Schools – Dumfries and Galloway Council (dumgal.gov.uk)
Early Identification and Intervention
Regularly monitoring attendance and behavioural patterns can help identify socially isolated students early. Providing targeted support to students showing signs of social isolation can prevent further absenteeism and related issues.
