Which of the following is considered a sign of a student at risk of dropping out?

• A. Limited parental support
• B. High grades
• C. Evidence of alcohol or drug problems
• D. Strong participation in extracurricular activities

Answer: (C)

When looking for signs that a student may be at risk of dropping out, a behavioral red flag to watch for is evidence of alcohol or drug problems. Substance use can directly disrupt school engagement—leading to missed classes, poorer grades, disciplinary issues, and withdrawal from school life—which collectively increase the likelihood of leaving school before completing the program. Because this issue can derail multiple aspects of a student’s academic life, it’s a clear, actionable indicator that often prompts targeted counseling, intervention, and support.

While limited parental support is a risk factor in general, it doesn’t signal an immediate, specific risk in the same direct way that a substance problem does. High grades suggest the student is progressing academically, which typically lowers dropout risk. Likewise, strong participation in extracurricular activities tends to be protective, fostering connection to school and time-management skills that support persistence toward graduation.