Clinical and Sociodemographic factors affecting School Absenteeism among children of age 8-12 years in Chennai

Abstract

1.1 Background: School absenteeism refers to the recurring or chronic absence of students from school. The latest AESR report (2021-2022) also shows that as against the enrolment rate of 98 percent at primary and upper primary levels for children aged 6 to 14 years in India, the attendance patterns have remained stagnant at close to 72 percent, varying 50-60 percent in states such as Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, to 86-90 percent in states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra (1). A range of factors can lead to absenteeism, including health-related issues, family responsibilities, difficulties with transportation, lack of interest or disengagement from school activities, experiences of bullying, mental health problems, and various socioeconomic challenges. Several studies show that chronic absenteeism has deleterious and long-lasting effects on the students’ learning and commitment.

Considering the importance and large prevalence of school absenteeism, a descriptive study was conducted to assess the point-prevalence of absenteeism and the various clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with chronic absenteeism among children aged 8-12 years.

1.2 Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the various clinical and sociodemographic factors that are associated with absenteeism among school going children of age group 8-12 years. In addition, study also tries to understand the correlation between school absenteeism and scholastic performance.

1.3 Methods: The study population included about 647 school going children aged 8-12 years, from different schools in Chennai. A semi-structured questionnaire and interview-based survey was administered to gather the socio-demographic data and the various associated risk factors that were under study. The data collected was analysed using SPSS software and ‘p’ value was calculated to prove statistical significance.

1.4 Results: The prevalence of absenteeism in our study was found to be about 4.9% (95% CI). Increased likelihood of School absenteeism was associated with lower maternal literacy levels, poor socio-economic status, larger family size, and male gender. Lower likelihood of absenteeism was linked to female gender.

1.5 Conclusions: The study’s findings show that school absenteeism may be due to the interplay between several factors like medical illnesses, socio-economic factors, literacy levels of the parents. Addressing school absenteeism requires understanding these underlying causes and implementing targeted interventions to support students in keeping regular attendance. Effectively reducing school absenteeism requires a comprehensive, multifaceted strategy that addresses its root causes and promotes a supportive educational environment.