Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Child Anxiety Disorders in Community Clinics in Norway

Effectiveness of Group and Individual Treatment of Childhood Anxiety Disorders in Community Clinics. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral intervention for children aged 7 to 12 years with anxiety disorders who are referred to ordinary community clinics. The treatment will be conducted as individual therapy or group therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary diagnosis of separation anxiety disorder, social phobia or generalized anxiety disorder based on the ADIS interview schedule, DSM-IV criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pervasive Developmental Disorder
• Psychotic symptoms
• Intelligence score < 70
• Use of medications with anxiety reducing effects during treatment
• Neither parent competent in Norwegian language