Some Valid Reasons Why Some Kids Don't Function at School – a Resource, Polyvagal, and Salutogenic Approach to Understanding the Phenomenon - Luuk L. Westerhof, MSc

Introduction

All humans enter the world equipped with innate, valuable abilities and latent potential. This view contrasts attachment theory, which posits that parental attachment and transference primarily influence children's development of these abilities. Instead, I contend that every child is born with unique capabilities that lie beneath the surface, ready to emerge when healthy interactions occur between parents and children.

When parenting is suboptimal—whether through neglect, miscommunication, or intentional harm—children can become parentified, taking on roles and responsibilities that stifle their natural growth and exploration. In such scenarios, the rich resources within them remain concealed, preventing the full expression of their potential. Viewing children through this lens, it becomes evident that labeling them as problematic or deviant is not only unhelpful but also misguided. These labels overlook the broader context of the child's environment, including the influence of their caregivers and the societal structures surrounding them.

The difficulties children face in academic settings can often be traced back to various interconnected factors rather than the shortcomings inherent to the children. This paper sheds light on why some children find it challenging to thrive in school, drawing upon three theoretical frameworks: a resource-based approach, polyvagal theory, and the salutogenic model of health.

The resource-based approach emphasizes recognizing and nurturing children's strengths and capacities rather than focusing solely on deficits. Polyvagal theory offers insight into how children’s emotional and physiological responses can impact their ability to engage in social and learning environments. Meanwhile, the salutogenic model of health highlights the significance of understanding what contributes to human well-being rather than merely focusing on illness or dysfunction.

By integrating these three perspectives, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges influencing academic performance and social interactions in educational contexts. This holistic approach seeks to illuminate the complexities that underlie children's experiences, paving the way for more effective support and interventions that nurture their inherent abilities and foster a positive learning environment.

Education plays a crucial role in child development and societal integration. However, not every child is able to engage successfully in the school environment. Factors influencing a child's ability to function at school can range from biological and psychological to social and environmental. This paper proposes an integrative approach by examining the resource perspective, the polyvagal theory of emotional regulation and social connection, and the salutogenic model of health—providing a nuanced understanding of this multifaceted issue.

1. Resource-Based Approach
2. Definition of Resources

The resource-based approach is a comprehensive framework that analyzes individuals' internal and external resources. These resources can significantly influence one's ability to function effectively in different areas of life, whether in personal, academic, or professional contexts. The resources are categorized into five major groups, each playing a crucial role in determining an individual's overall well-being and capacity for success:

1. Personal Resources: This category encompasses individuals' intrinsic qualities and traits. Key attributes include resilience, which is the ability to recover from setbacks; self-efficacy, or the belief in one’s capabilities to achieve goals; and emotional intelligence, which refers to the capacity to recognize, understand, and manage one’s emotions and those of others. Personal resources play a crucial role in enhancing individual functioning and overall well-being. They empower individuals to navigate daily challenges more effectively and foster the development of more potent coping strategies when faced with difficult situations. However, it is essential to recognize that these resources do not emerge in isolation; they require nurturing environments and supportive social interactions. Individuals engaging in safe and positive relationships create the foundation for these resources to grow and thrive. This interconnectedness highlights the importance of supportive communities and relationships in cultivating personal resilience and adaptability.

2. Social Resources: Social resources refer to the supportive relationships that individuals nurture with key figures, such as family members, friends, peers, and educators. These relationships are vital in providing emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance, all essential for personal development and effective coping strategies.

For instance, family members often serve as a primary source of unconditional love and encouragement during challenging times, while friends and peers provide companionship and shared experiences that can alleviate feelings of isolation. Educators can offer valuable mentorship and academic guidance, helping individuals navigate their educational journeys.

Strong social networks foster a deep sense of belonging and security and encourage individuals to be more resilient in life's various challenges. When people feel connected and supported by those around them, they are better equipped to face obstacles, make informed decisions, and confidently pursue their goals. Overall, the cultivation of these relationships is crucial for overall well-being and personal growth.

3. Economic Resources: Economic resources are the financial means and material conditions that fundamentally support and shape an individual's lifestyle. These resources are critical for personal development and well-being and can be categorized into several key components.

Firstly, financial stability is a cornerstone of economic resources. It encompasses having a reliable income, savings, and access to credit, which can significantly reduce stress. Financial stability allows individuals to meet their daily needs and opens doors to opportunities such as education, professional development, and investments, enabling them to pursue personal and career growth.

Secondly, access to nutritious food is essential for maintaining physical health and cognitive functioning. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients plays a vital role in overall well-being, influencing everything from energy levels to mental clarity. Without adequate economic resources, individuals may struggle to afford healthy food options, leading to adverse health outcomes that can further hinder personal development.

Additionally, suitable living conditions are crucial for improving one’s quality of life. This includes having a safe and stable home environment and access to basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services. Proper living conditions are linked to better health outcomes, enhanced educational performance, and overall life satisfaction.

In summary, adequate economic resources empower individuals to pursue their ambitions and life goals without financial hardship. Individuals can cultivate a more secure and fulfilling lifestyle by ensuring access to financial stability, nutritious food, and appropriate living conditions, ultimately leading to a thriving community.

4. Cognitive Resources: Cognitive resources refer to individuals' various mental skills and abilities, which are crucial to their everyday functioning and success. These resources include, but are not limited to, problem-solving skills that enable individuals to identify challenges, analyze potential solutions, and implement effective strategies. Critical thinking is another key component, as it allows individuals to evaluate information, assess arguments, and make reasoned judgments based on evidence rather than assumptions.

Creativity also forms an essential part of cognitive resources, fostering the ability to generate original ideas and approach problems from unique perspectives. These mental skills are vital for making well-informed decisions in both personal and professional contexts.

Furthermore, substantial cognitive resources empower individuals to develop effective strategies for addressing obstacles and adapting to change. They facilitate learning by enabling individuals to process new information, integrate it with existing knowledge, and apply it to different situations. Robust cognitive resources are essential for fostering innovation, allowing individuals to think outside the box and explore new possibilities in a rapidly evolving world.

It is crucial to understand that when an individual is grappling with trauma, their nervous system may struggle to maintain optimal cognitive functioning. This disruption is not a sign of a cognitive disorder; instead, it reflects the nervous system's neurological response to ensure the individual's safety.

In situations of stress or trauma, the body activates its sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the individual for a 'fight-or-flight' response. This heightened state can lead to difficulties in concentration, memory, and decision-making. Conversely, some individuals may experience a shutdown in the dorsal vagal system, leading to immobilization or disengagement, which can also hinder cognitive processes.

These responses are standard survival mechanisms that indicate the body's attempt to cope with overwhelming situations rather than a reflection of the person's cognitive abilities. Understanding this distinction can help in providing appropriate support and interventions for those affected by trauma.

5. Environmental Resources: Environmental resources pertain to the characteristics of the surrounding environment, particularly the educational settings in which individuals operate. Factors such as safety, inclusivity, and the overall emotional climate of the school environment play a significant role in a person's ability to thrive. A positive, supportive environment fosters learning, engagement, and well-being, while a negative or hostile environment can impede growth and development.

Epigenetics demonstrates that the dynamic relationship between individuals and their environments plays a vital role in shaping behavior and traits. This interaction is influenced by external factors such as lifestyle, diet, stress, and the social contexts in which individuals find themselves. The nuances of these interactions—positive or negative—can lead to changes in gene expression, highlighting how a person's social relationships and environments influence their biological makeup. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of this interplay can offer valuable insights into how social dynamics contribute to individual health and well-being at an epigenetic level. The nuances of social interactions, whether positive or negative, significantly alter gene expression. This transformation underscores the profound impact of an individual's social relationships and environmental contexts on their biological makeup. For instance, supportive relationships can foster resilience and promote overall health, while adverse interactions may lead to stress and detrimental health effects.

By exploring... the specific characteristics of these interactions, we can better understand how they shape our biological responses. This knowledge is crucial, as it provides valuable insights into how social dynamics influence individual health and well-being at the epigenetic level. Epigenetics examines how external factors can affect gene activity without altering the DNA sequence itself, thus revealing the intricate links between our social environments and biological systems.

In summary, the resource-based approach emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive understanding of the diverse factors contributing to an individual's functioning and success. By recognizing and enhancing these resources, individuals can improve their overall quality of life and achieve their personal and academic goals.

1. Impact of Resources on Functioning

Children who struggle to access their essential internal resources often face significant cognitive and emotional barriers in their educational environments. For example, a child from a disadvantaged background may experience food insecurity, which can significantly affect their mental functioning and behavior. Research has demonstrated that inadequate nutrition can hinder brain development, impair concentration, and lower overall academic performance.

Moreover, children who lack sufficient social support may feel isolated and disconnected from their peers. This sense of isolation can foster feelings of anxiety and depression, making them reluctant to participate in school activities, both academically and socially. The absence of supportive relationships can leave these children feeling vulnerable and unable to navigate the complexities of school life.

Additionally, children who grow up in dysfunctional family systems characterized by poor or neglectful parenting may find themselves in situations where they take on adult responsibilities, known as parentification. This role reversal can lead to a disconnect from their emotional needs and hinder their development.

Serious issues such as domestic violence and substance abuse can further complicate a child’s home life. When one or both caregivers struggle with addiction or engage in violent behavior, the resulting instability can create a chaotic and unsafe environment. Furthermore, children exposed to physical and psychological abuse may find themselves preoccupied with their home situations while in school, severely impeding their focus and participation in learning activities.

Incarceration of a parent can compound these issues, as children may experience feelings of abandonment, shame, or confusion. This psychological burden can overwhelm a child, making it difficult to concentrate on their studies or engage with their classmates.

Given these multifaceted challenges, it is essential to identify and strengthen the resources that can support these children. Targeted interventions, such as counseling, food programs, and mentorship opportunities, can lay the groundwork for addressing these children's academic and emotional difficulties in school. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, we can help break the cycle of disadvantage and promote healthier, more successful educational experiences.

1. Polyvagal Theory
2. Overview of Polyvagal Theory

The polyvagal theory, developed by Stephen Porges, posits that the autonomic nervous system is crucial in regulating emotional responses and social behavior. It underscores how physiological states influence social engagement and interactions. The theory identifies three primary physiological states:

1. Ventral Vagal State: Associated with safety and social engagement.
2. Sympathetic State: Linked to fight or flight responses elicited by perceived threats.
3. Dorsal Vagal State: Reflecting a state of shutdown or collapse in response to extreme stress.

1. Application in Educational Settings

Understanding the complex emotional and physiological states that children may experience is essential for educators to support their students effectively. These emotional states can profoundly influence a child's behavior, learning, and overall engagement in the classroom environment. For example, a child who has endured trauma may frequently find themselves in a sympathetic state, which is characterized by heightened arousal and stress. This response can be triggered by various stressors, including academic challenges, peer conflicts, or even unexpected changes in their daily routines. In such a sympathetic state, the child may exhibit difficulty concentrating, participating actively in discussions, or establishing positive interactions with their classmates, which can hinder their academic progress and social development.

Recognizing the signs of distress in children is a crucial step for educators, allowing them to take proactive measures to address these challenges. By creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing classroom environment, teachers can help facilitate a transition to a ventral vagal state. This state is associated with feelings of safety, comfort, and connection, vital for effective learning and meaningful communication.

Educators can employ various strategies to achieve this. Building trusting relationships with students is a crucial first step; this can involve getting to know their interests, listening to their concerns, and validating their feelings. Providing emotional support through regular check-ins, encouraging open dialogue about emotions, and offering reassurance can foster a sense of safety.

Additionally, implementing calming techniques can significantly help children manage their stress levels. Mindfulness exercises, for example, teach children how to focus on the present moment, reduce anxiety, and cultivate resilience. Incorporating breaks during lessons allows students to decompress and recharge, while outdoor play encourages relaxation and connection with nature. Role-playing activities can enable students to express their emotions and practice social skills in a safe environment.

By employing these comprehensive approaches, educators can create an atmosphere that supports emotional well-being and facilitates better engagement. This enhances the overall learning experience and promotes healthier social interactions among students. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to fostering a classroom culture where all children feel valued, understood, and empowered to thrive academically and socially.

III. Salutogenic Approach

1. Definition of the Salutogenic Model

The salutogenic model, developed by Aaron Antonovsky, represents a significant shift in understanding health by moving from a pathogenic (disease-focused) framework toward a salutogenic (health-focused) one. This approach highlights the necessity of recognizing and understanding the factors contributing to overall health and well-being, even in the face of significant stressors or challenges.

Central to this model is the concept of Sense of Coherence (SOC), which reflects an individual's ability to view life as comprehensible, manageable, and meaningful. SOC encompasses three essential components. By highlighting these elements, the salutogenic model fosters a holistic perspective on health, promoting resilience and well-being even in challenging circumstances.

1. Comprehensibility is the concept that describes how individuals interpret and make sense of their surroundings. It involves understanding and finding meaning in various aspects of the environment, including social interactions, physical settings, and cultural contexts. When people perceive their environment as comprehensible, they feel more confident in navigating it and can engage more effectively with the world around them. This sense of understanding can be influenced by previous experiences, knowledge, and the clarity of information available in their environment.
2. Manageability is the belief in one's capability to effectively handle and navigate stressors and challenges that arise in daily life. This concept involves recognizing and employing coping strategies, problem-solving skills, and personal resources to address various stressors. Individuals with a strong sense of manageability are more likely to approach difficulties with confidence and resilience, enabling them to maintain their well-being even in challenging situations.
3. Meaningfulness is the profound sense that life holds a significant purpose and that the challenges we encounter are valuable and worth overcoming. It involves recognizing the importance of our experiences and understanding how they contribute to our personal growth and fulfillment. When we perceive our struggles as opportunities for development, they take on a new significance, enriching our lives and guiding us toward our goals. This awareness empowers us to embrace challenges and motivates us to pursue an intentional and impactful life.

1. Integration into School Context

Fostering a strong sense of competence (SOC) within the school environment is crucial for empowering children to navigate challenges both academically and personally effectively. Schools must implement comprehensive programs to enhance students' understanding of academic content and skills to achieve this.

First and foremost, schools must deliver curriculum materials in a manner that is accessible and engaging. This can be accomplished by incorporating various interactive teaching methods, such as hands-on activities, group discussions, and technology-based resources that cater to the diverse learning styles present in any classroom. By utilizing these varied approaches, teachers can help students connect with the material more resoundingly, supporting their comprehension and retention of information.

Educational programs must equip students with practical management skills and an understanding of content. Essential competencies like effective time management, organizational strategies, and problem-solving techniques can significantly benefit children navigating their academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities. For instance, teaching students how to break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, set realistic deadlines, and establish priorities will enhance their academic performance and instill a sense of control and confidence in their abilities to tackle situations.

Moreover, a resilient mindset is key to helping students cope with challenges. Schools can teach children the importance of perseverance and the ability to learn from mistakes, empowering them to face academic pressures and life obstacles head-on. Coaching or programs focusing on emotional intelligence, stress management, and coping strategies can further develop this resilience.

Equally important, the learning experiences provided within schools hold meaningful significance for students. By linking academic content to real-world applications, educators can help children recognize the relevance of what they learn daily. For instance, incorporating project-based learning that addresses community issues or practical problem-solving scenarios can motivate students by allowing them to see their education as a tool for real change. When students perceive personal value in their education, they are far more likely to engage with the material and enthusiastically pursue learning opportunities.

Schools can significantly enhance students' sense of competence by adopting these targeted interventions and creating a supportive environment. This approach boosts their confidence and overall well-being and increases their academic engagement. Ultimately, equipping students with these essential tools will prepare them to succeed in school and thrive in their future endeavors, fostering a generation of capable, resilient individuals ready to meet the demands of an ever-changing world.

Summary

Understanding why some children struggle to function effectively in school requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that integrates various theoretical frameworks. One key perspective is the resource-based approach, which emphasizes the essential assets—such as emotional support, cognitive skills, and social connections—children need to navigate their educational experiences successfully. This perspective acknowledges that not all children have access to the same resources, which can significantly impact their academic performance and overall well-being.

In addition, polyvagal theory offers valuable insights into the physiological and emotional challenges that can hinder a child's ability to engage in the classroom. This theory suggests that a child's nervous system responses, particularly stress and safety-related ones, can affect their ability to focus, learn, and interact with peers. Understanding these physiological processes is crucial for educators and caregivers as they work to create a supportive environment that accommodates each child's unique emotional needs.

Furthermore, the salutogenic model focuses on the factors contributing to health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of identifying and building on children’s strengths rather than solely addressing their weaknesses. This model encourages the development of resilience and coping strategies, allowing children to thrive in the face of challenges.

By integrating these diverse approaches, educators and policymakers can address the various factors contributing to children's school difficulties more effectively. This holistic understanding leads to developing targeted intervention strategies considering each child's unique circumstances and needs. Future research and educational practices should explore these interconnected complexities to foster an inclusive academic environment where all children can succeed and reach their full potential.

References

• Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.
• Antonovsky, A. (1987). Unraveling the Mystery of Health: How People Manage Stress and Stay Well. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
• Ungar, M. (2012). The Social Ecology of Resilience: A Handbook of Theory and Practice. New York: Springer.
• Siegel, D. J. (2010). Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation. New York: Bantam Books.
• Blum, R. W., & Libbey, H. P. (2004). A Collective Responsibility: The Social Ecology of Health for the Adolescent Population. Health Education & Behavior, 31(3), 231-237.