When dealing with shy, withdrawn 9th graders, which counseling technique should the school counselor utilize first?

Utilizing small group engagement as the initial counseling technique for shy, withdrawn 9th graders is effective because it provides a supportive environment where students can slowly acclimate to social interactions. In a small group setting, these students can interact with peers who might have similar experiences, creating a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. The group's structure allows for safety in numbers, which can alleviate anxiety associated with one-on-one interactions and foster communication skills gradually.

Moreover, small group counseling can encourage shy students to open up at their own pace, as they can observe and learn from others, which can be less daunting than engaging in individual counseling or large group activities. The interactions stimulate social engagement, promote peer relationships, and develop social skills in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Other techniques, while beneficial in their own right, may not address the immediate need for social interaction and comfort with peers as effectively as small group engagement. Distributing social skills handouts or encouraging extracurricular activities might come later, as those strategies often require a level of confidence and social readiness that shy students may not yet possess. Individual counseling can also serve a purpose but may not provide the immediate peer interaction that can aid in reducing withdrawal symptoms. Small group settings thus serve as a bridge to building social competence