Identifier

etd-04112008-080231

Degree

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

This cross sectional, exploratory study examined the characteristics of elementary school children at risk for truancy. Furthermore, the study explored if there were any significant gender differences in the number of children referred to the TASC program. The current study also sought to answer if there were any gender differences in common problem areas reported to have an impact on truancy. Finally, any differences between children identified as low risk and high risk were also investigated. This study used secondary data analysis. Elementary school children (N = 23,459), grades Kindergarten through 4th grade who participated in the TASC program of Louisiana from the years 2002 to 2007, were included in the study. The Risk Indicator Survey I and the Global Assessment tool were used as a means of identifying the common problem areas that are affecting children in the TASC program. The results of the study revealed that there were no significant differences quantity of males and females referred to the TASC program. No significant differences were observed between males and females in regards to each category of risk factors or characteristics listed on the Risk Indicator Survey I. Furthermore, the study illustrated that there were no significant difference between males and females in the type of problem area that is affecting their truancy. However, a considerable number of children were reported to have behavioral problems and educational issues affecting their truancy. Significant gender differences were found between children identified as low risk versus high risk in the TASC program. Also, children’s characteristics were significantly related to the risk status. School social workers can positively impact truancy by identifying students at risk for truancy and linking at risk children with appropriate interventions.

Date

2008

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Juan Barthelemy

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.2172

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