Linking School Refusal to Academic Stress and Emotions via Cross-lagged Panel Network Analysis

• In Event: The Use of Advanced Statistical Methods in the Study of Students and the Teaching Workforce Over Time

Abstract

School refusal behavior (SRB) among adolescents due to psychological factors is increasing, potentially causing emotional, academic, and social issues. This longitudinal study tracked 1,518 students (Grades 7-8 & 10-11; 52.6% female) across 6 months. Using cross-lagged panel network analysis (CLPN), results identified depressive mood as the central bridge symptom for SBR. Parental stress consistently predicted SRB through parent-child conflict, while teacher stress triggered SRB via exposure to school-related negative stimuli. Findings reveal distinct pathways underlying adolescent SRB.

Authors

• NA FU, Beijing Normal University

• Xiaochen Xie, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro