Children With Anxiety Disorders: Use of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Model Within a Social Milieu

Abstract

Because anxiety is the most common mental health disorder diagnosed in children, early intervention is crucial for fundamental coping. Although cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the preferred treatment method for this affective disorder, instruction for children needs to be specific for them to successfully acquire and implement essential CBT coping skills. This research attempts such an approach, using emotional management training (EMT), a specific form of CBT for children diagnosed with anxiety disorders, to assist in regulating thoughts and emotions with a milieu of complementary group activities. Administration of the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children, and its subdomains, Anxiety Disorder Index and Inconsistency Index, indicated a decrease in children's anxiety over the course of two program offerings. Evaluation of participants’ initial anxious behaviors by counselors and end analysis resulted in a less overall anxious group. The End-of-Program Satisfaction Survey, as well as supplementary subject and parent reports, was positively consistent. The use of EMT within a social milieu for children with anxiety disorders is recommended as an alternate to the traditional CBT model.