Answered: Which treatment is more effective for…

Ciccarelli: Psychology_5 (5th Edition)

5th Edition

ISBN:9780134477961

Author:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White

Publisher:Saundra K. Ciccarelli, J. Noland White

Chapter1: The Science Of Psychology

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1TY

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Question

Which treatment is more effective for childhood anxiety disorder ?

Expert Solution

Step 1

Childhood anxiety disorders mark the symptoms in frequent outbursts, being irritable, missing out on meals, being unable to sleep, having excessively negative thoughts, and having nightmares. Childhood anxiety disorders such as separation anxiety disorder, selective mutism, specific phobias, and social anxiety disorders are common in children between the age of 4 to 17.

Step 2

Treatments of anxiety disorders in children:

Medications such as antidepressants can also be given to children sufferings from anxiety disorders if they possess symptoms of anxiety or depression. Medications for childhood anxiety disorders mainly include Antidepressants, Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are commonly used for the treatment. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the drugs that cause the least side effects as compared to other antidepressants, also it is effective for childhood anxiety disorders. Treatment of anxiety disorders or panic attacks includes these medications along with psychotherapy or behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, a form of psychotherapy, is considered the best treatment plan for treating children with anxiety disorder. Children are assisted to change their negative thinking and decision-making process. The therapy involves the introduction of various types of interventions such as;

Helping the child in gaining an insight about his disorder and having an understanding of it,
Helping him to learn and identify his challenging thoughts and beliefs.
Through talking therapy the children learn to understand their distorted thoughts and belief system which helps them in restructuring and adapting cognitive flexibility.
This therapy helps in improving decision-making and coping skills such as deep breathing and muscle relaxation while dealing with triggers.
This therapy helps in enhancing motivation towards modifying the thinking and behavioral patterns into a healthier and constructive way in a child with anxiety disorder.