Question:
My 14 year old son is having a difficult time in school this year. He's very smart and has proven he can be a good student, but lately he seems to just not care. Refusing to work in class, not turning in homework, etc. If I get on him, he'll buckle down and do well for awhile, but then is right back to slacking off again. I can't figure out why?! It's obvious he CAN do the work, just doesn't feel like he HAS to do it. Any suggestions?Answer:
ParentingTeensOnline expert John Blaber, M.A. is an English teacher, Alameda High School, CA. He answers:
When I hear these types of parental concerns I direct the parent to a guidance counselor, who in turn will usually speak with the student and parent and often will refer the parent to a community mental health agency/professional so the child can be interviewed and evaluated. A sudden drop off in previously satisfactory school performance, hiding grade information from parents, lack of effort in class, and being uncommunicative and/or dishonest can be signs of depression or other disorders. On the other hand, they may just be adolescent growing pains or signs of difficulties with a particular teacher or subject. As students move into higher grade levels and work becomes increasingly rigorous, students who previously sailed through school may encounter their first academic struggles and this can come as something of a shock. The student may feel ashamed and embarrassed and wish to hide the struggle from parents. In cases where teens are exhibiting these types of behaviors, it's best to have the teen evaluated by a qualified mental health professional so these symptoms can be properly understood and addressed. The child's teacher may be a part of the solution, but the range of issues described suggests the issues these teens are facing extend beyond the classroom.