Semester of Graduation

Spring 2021

Degree

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Chronic absenteeism affects nearly 20% of high school students every year (ED, 2016). It is an indicator of students at-risk and the strongest indicator of student dropout. Poor outcomes and risk indicators associated with chronic absenteeism are well established, but little is known about factors that could mitigate chronic absenteeism among vulnerable high school students. This study explored the potential influence of teacher, counselor, and peer relationships on chronic absenteeism in students, after controlling for sex, race, and socioeconomic status. The nationally representative sample came from the National Longitudinal Study of 2009 (NSLS:09) and included 17,777 students. Data were collected from the student sample during their 9th grade year and 11th grade year. There were significant associations between sex, race, and socioeconomic status regarding absenteeism, with white female students of lower socioeconomic status being most susceptible to chronic absenteeism. Student relationships with school counselors were also associated with chronic absenteeism. More research is needed to understand the counselor-student relationship and the level of influence counselors have on the absenteeism of vulnerable students.

Committee Chair

Moon, Catherine "Kelly"

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.5279

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