The effect of family based cognitive-behavioral therapy on children's non-clinical anxiety

Introduction: The present study aims at determining the efficacy of family based cognitive-behavioral therapy on children's anxiety. Methods: In a quasi-experimental study, 120 girls’ with the ages of 10-11 with scores above 24 on the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale were enrolled. The mothers completed the Spence Children's Anxiety Scale-Parent Version. Mothers and children were randomly assigned to both control and case groups. The case group attended 8 sessions of family based cognitive-behavioral therapy (Cool Kids). Results: The findings showed a significant difference between case and control groups in anxiety, with reduction in the case group. Case group mothers also, reported a significant reduction in their children’s anxiety. Conclusion: Based on these findings, we can apply family based cognitive-behavioral therapy as an effective means of reducing children's anxiety.

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