Family based treatment of anxiety disorders: A review of the literature (2010 –2019)

AbstractAnxiety disorders are the most common and impairing mental health problems across the lifespan. Familial factors are strongly implicated in the onset and maintenance of anxiety, but available evidence-based treatments are usually individual-focused. The aim of this review was to evaluate the current evidence base (2010 –2019) of family based interventions addressing youth and adult anxiety and highlight findings comparing family based and individual-focused treatments. A systematic literature search was conducted. Articles were considered if they targeted primarily anxiety-related issues and utilized a randomize d controlled trial design, resulting in 22 included youth studies. No adult studies met criteria for inclusion. Overall, family based treatments performed better than no-treatment controls and as well as individual-based interventions, with some evidence that family based interventions might outperf orm individual-based ones in certain populations (i.e., autism). Family based interventions may represent a good alternative for anxiety treatment in youth. Additional research on family based treatment for anxiety is adults is needed.
Source: Journal of Marital and Family Therapy - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: INVITED REVIEW Source Type: research