He might have severe anxiety attacks whenever he approaches school. He may complain of stomach pains, backaches, chest pain, and fatigue. He'll probably tell you he's just unable to go to school or doesn't want to anymore. The physical symptoms, although real, are occurring in response to psychological distress. School violence in particular is a problem that you cannot afford to ignore.
Some adolescents are afraid to go to school because they fear for their own safety.
Violence on junior high and high school campuses has become almost epidemic in some parts of the country, particularly in urban centers. Not only does it threaten the physical well-being of youngsters, but it undermines the educational process. Gangs, assaults, and extortions have forced reading, writing, and arithmetic into a secondary role in too many schools. If you suspect that anxiety may be keeping your own teenager away from school, you need to intervene before circumstances become completely out of control. Bring situations such as violence and intimidation to the attention of school authorities and work with them to make the school environment more comfortable for your youngster.