Suspended and excluded : the narratives of adolescent girls with SEBD in Maltese schools

Abstract

The experiences of ten adolescent girls with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties, who have been suspended or excluded from school as a result of having had conflicts with members of staff, are recorded in this study in the form of narratives. Hence, this study gives voice to these girls, focusing mainly on their experiences at school and their reflections about them. The narrative approach, within the qualitative method of research, was selected for this study so as to obtain the authentic experiences of these girls, their natural and genuine emotions and thoughts about them. The ten participating girls verbally narrated their experiences which were then transcribed and presented in the study. These narratives are discussed with reference to literature, which includes a discussion on adolescent girls with SEBO and the use of suspensions and exclusions as deterrents for undesired behaviour. This study highlights a number of emerging issues from the girls' narratives including the schools' physical and psychological environments, the teachers' expectations and curricula, relationships with school staff and peers, and the use of suspensions and exclusions as deterrents for undesired behaviour. This study also aims to challenge the common notions and stereotypical images of adolescent girls with SEBO in such a way that intrigues reflection on practices, philosophies and beliefs. Thus, this leads to the importance of catering for the needs of adolescent girls with SEBO through a supportive learning environment.