Absenteeism, an indicator of the health status of school children in the middle schools of the Molopo region in the North-West Province

• Main Author: Hlonipho, Maria Molebogeng
• Other Authors: Dreyer, M. A. (Maria Salomina), 1939-
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: Absenteeism; Health problems; School absences; School health nursing; Attendance control; Health status; Health assessment; Parents' socio-economic status; Pupils' lifestyles; Non-attendance; School refusal; Medical conditions; School children illnesses; 371.712; School health services > Molopo Local Municipality (South Africa); Health status indicators > Molopo Local Municipality (South Africa); School children > Health and hygiene > Molopo Local Municipality (South Africa)
• Online Access: Hlonipho, Maria Molebogeng (1995) Absenteeism, an indicator of the health status of school children in the middle schools of the Molopo region in the North-West Province, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/16958>; http://hdl.handle.net/10500/16958

Health related absenteeism was identified as a problem in the schools in the Molopo region, needing a multi-disciplinary approach which included the parents. A conceptual framework on absenteeism was used as a guideline for the descriptive research design. Using a convenience sampling technique 426 absentees, 22 teachers and 2 school nurses filled in three separate questionnaires in ten schools selected to determine the extent of absenteeism due to health related and other problems, the control measures taken and the awareness of school personnel. Health problems were identified as the main reasons for absenteeism. Inadequate communication between the schools and parents as well as lack of guidelines on the control of absenteeism, were other problems identified. Recommendations made related to the provision of school health services that promote the health status of the pupils based on Primary Health Care principles, parental involvement in school health matters and the formulation of policies aimed at controlling absenteeism in schools. === Health Sciences === M.A. (Nursing Science)