<![CDATA[Social withdrawal during adolescence is a behavior characterized by a tendency to limit social interactions, avoid engagement with peers, and prefer individual activities. This condition warrants attention because it can hinder students’ social and emotional development and their adjustment to the school environment. This study aims to describe the level of social withdrawal among eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 1 Wanaraja, identify differences based on gender, and formulate implications of the research findings for guidance and counseling services. The study used a quantitative approach with a descriptive design. The study population consisted of 451 eighth-grade students, with 199 students selected as the sample through incidental sampling. Data were collected using a social withdrawal instrument and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Mann–Whitney U test. The results showed that students’ social withdrawal scores ranged from 24 to 120, with a mean of 72 and a standard deviation of 12. A total of 141 students (71%) fell into the moderate category, 57 students (29%) fell into the low category, and 1 student fell into the high category. By aspect, “nonfearful” accounted for 55%, while “dysregulation” accounted for 54%; both fell into the moderate category. Analysis by gender revealed a significant difference between male and female students (p = 0.009). These findings indicate the importance of group counseling services focused on developing social skills, emotional regulation, self-confidence, and the ability to build interpersonal relationships.]]>
