Dr. Robert Turner Details Signs of an At-risk Student or Child

Dr. Robert Turner has spoken to many parents who express their concerns about their child potentially being at-risk when they hear that he is a counselor. Already, the first step to helping an at-risk child is complete—a vigilant parent is observing them, looking for signs or indicators. It’s crucial to understand the signs so you know if your child or teen needs help.

• Frequent disinterest in schoolwork - Teachers may notice that the child is suddenly slacking off, abandoning homework, and dropping grades. They may be frequently tardy or absent.

• Reclusive and unsociable - they may start withdrawing from their social circle. It could be gradual or sudden, but they will entirely isolate themselves from their usual social circle. Dr. Robert Turner observes that these withdrawals could come from feelings of inadequacy or lack of confidence.

• Excessive feelings of persecution or rejection - When the child starts feeling extreme emotions towards being picked on, persecuted, or rejected by their peers, it could indicate bullying or social isolation. The child will gradually avoid social interaction out of the fear of getting further persecuted or rejected.

• Major change in life circumstances - Have the parents recently divorced? Has there been a severe change in their economic situation? Did they get a new sibling, or did they recently move somewhere new? Sudden upheavals in life can trigger a child to behave differently. Dr. Robert Turner recommends parents look closely at their recent history and consider if their child may be acting out in response.

It is important to keep a watch over a child you may consider at-risk. The most crucial thing is to prevent their situation getting worse by reminding them that they’re not alone in their fight. Please give them the support they seek out and help them overcome their troubles. It can help bring the child back to better mental and emotional health.