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Lack of Motivation and Underachievers are the trend of today's teen society. Most teens are not working up to their potential and are lacking in the desire to continue school. We have two scenarios that we frequently
hear: the teen wants to quit school or the teen only goes to school to socialize.
Quitting High School is not an option for many if not all. Ironically when
many of us were growing up, graduating High School was not an option, we never
considered dropping out. Years ago, GED's were frowned upon - whereas now they
are acceptable and many teens are using this as way to get out of going to
school. They claim they can get a GED later. GED's have their place in the
educational system for those that have special needs or requirements that
prevent them from attending a regular High School. It is important for teens to
understand that an education should be their priority to secure their future.
It is easier to write this than to enforce it, but we can never give up on our
children.
Today in some states, a child can withdraw from school with or without a
parent's consent. The most common age is 16; however I would suggest you check
with your local school district for your legal age. Trying to convince a teen
they have to go to finish school can be frustrating. In prior generations,
parents worried about getting their kids into college - today those with
struggling teens worry about them finishing High School.
Many of the teens are underachievers; although capable of the work, lack the
motivation to succeed. Today we worry about getting our children through high
school, not to mention the competition to get into good colleges. The teens that
go to school for their social life, are usually the underachievers and lack
motivation for academics. These are students that can do the work, are highly
intelligent, but have decided that their friends are more important. An
underachiever can also be the child that doesn't want to go to school. In some
cases they are distracted by emotional issues, or are not challenged enough in
school. There may also be some learning disabilities not diagnosed. It is wise
to have your child tested to see if this could be holding them back
academically.
As a proactive parent we must seek resources to help our child take an
interest in learning. Being an informed parent can help educate your child for
a brighter future.
If you feel your teen is in need of further Boarding School, Military School or Program Options, please complete our
Information
Request Form. Please visit
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Articles for more beneficial information.
*Local Therapist should be Therapist/Counselors that "specialize" with Adolescents. |
