What do we mean by Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)? Here we reconceptualise EBSA as a spectrum of needs and recognise a child or young persons EBSA needs regardless of their current attendance status.
Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) is a broad umbrella term used to describe a group of children and young people who experience significant and enduring challenges in attending school due to emotional factors, mainly feelings of fear and anxiety.
The EBSA is more than just a child or young person’s perceived dislike for school. The school avoidance is rooted in emotional and physical anguish, and the difficulties can escalate to such an extent that the child no longer feels able to attend school (even if they want to).
How many children in each of these categories would you estimate there to be in your school?
The Anxiety Cycle
from Dr Jerricah Holder's School Training Course
In the The Anxiety Cycle and EBSA Model, we will explore the significant role of anxiety and avoidance as a natural and understandable strategy employed by the child to cope with those overwhelming feelings of fear and worry.
Take some time to hold in mind a CYP you've worked / are working with; to consider how the anxiety cycle impacts them at the individual level, and to put yourself in their shoes. Use "I" statements to note down some of the thoughts and feelings you believe they are likely holding.
