Overview
Persistent challenges in academic participation, learning engagement, or school functioning that interfere with a child or young person’s ability to access the curriculum and participate effectively in the educational environment.
Diagnostic criteria overview
- Criterion A: Ongoing difficulties in academic engagement, performance, or school attendance Criterion B: Difficulties persist despite typical classroom support or instruction Criterion C: Problems result in clinically significant impairment in educational participation or attainment
Symptoms
- Difficulty concentrating or completing school tasks
- Poor academic performance relative to expected level
- Frequent absences or school avoidance
- Difficulty following instructions or organising work
Impact on functioning
- Reduced participation in classroom learning
- Falling behind academically compared with peers
- Increased frustration or reduced confidence in learning
- Strained relationships with teachers or peers
- Heightened family concern regarding educational progress