School Refusal in Combined Junior & Senior High Schools: Why Academic Support Isn’t the First Step

【About the Author】

Japan Autonomous Development Association (JADA)
Representative Director: Takanobu Sugiura

With over 40 years of experience and more than 10,000 consultations, Takanobu Sugiura is a leading specialist in resolving school refusal and social withdrawal (Hikikomori). Author of “The 15% Truth of Solving School Refusal.” Since April 2026, he has led JADA, focusing on fostering “Autonomy” through the unique JPC (Japan Parents Coach) method.

Passing the entrance exam for a prestigious combined junior and senior high school is a major milestone. However, many parents are blindsided when their child starts showing signs of “School Refusal” (Futoko) shortly after enrollment.

The first instinct for many is to seek academic support—tutors or cram schools—to ensure the child doesn’t fall behind. But after 40 years of experience, I have seen that for these students, the issue is rarely about grades. It is often a mismatch between the child’s personality and the school environment.

1. Academic Support vs. JADA’s Holistic Approach

Most organizations focus on the “student” by providing a place to study. At JADA, we focus on the “parents” and the “environment” first. This shift in perspective is the fastest route to a real solution.

Feeling lost about the next step?Free 30-Minute Consultation with Takanobu Sugiura

2. The Power of “You Are Not Wrong”

In a recent case involving a 7th-grade boy, he was struggling with a chaotic school atmosphere and rigid “collective responsibility” rules. He retreated into gaming as his only escape. His parents, out of love, tried to restrict his games and urged him to return to school, which only worsened the relationship.

By applying our **JPC (Japan Parents Coach)** method, the parents shifted from “critics” to “supporters.” When we told him, “The environment is simply a mismatch; you are not a failure,” he wept with relief. This sense of security is the spark that ignites the will to move forward.

▼ Over 40 years of success: View our “16 Case Studies”
https://yoboukyoukai.com/seikou14/

3. The 7-Step Roadmap to Autonomy

We don’t just aim for “school attendance.” Our goal is Autonomy (Jiritsu)—the ability to navigate life on one’s own terms.

1. Parent Coaching: Assess the “stage” (1-5) and update parenting styles.
2. Home Visitation: Certified JPC coaches enter the child’s room for direct dialogue.
3. Lifestyle Improvement Camp: Building routines through communal living.
4. Academic Recovery: Rebuilding confidence through personalized learning.
5. Accompanied Support: Coaches accompany students to interviews or exams.
6. Work Experience: Gaining confidence through part-time employment.
7. Autonomy (Final Goal): Establishing a career path (Corporate, Entrepreneurship, etc.).

▼ Watch success story interviews on YouTube
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A Message to All Parents

As of April 1, 2026, we have officially changed our name to the Japan Autonomous Development Association (JADA). School refusal is not a “defeat.” It is a signal that your child needs a path that truly fits their unique strengths.

Don’t face this alone. Let’s find the “Next Step” together.

Let’s create a future where your child can thrive.Book a Free 30-Minute Consultation

Japan Autonomous Development Association (JADA)
Representative Director: Takanobu Sugiura
(Formerly: Association for the Prevention of School Refusal and Hikikomori)