A Multi-Method Early Intervention Program for Inhibited and Anxious Preschoolers

A Multi-Method Early Intervention Program for Inhibited and Anxious Preschoolers

This project aims to develop and evaluate a novel early intervention program that targets the specific risk factors implicated in the development and persistence of shyness, social reticence, and withdrawal in children. The project includes a program development phase, Phase I (pilot test of full study procedures using developed treatment protocol), and Phase II (randomized controlled trial/RCT). Outcomes that will be assessed include change in child behavioral inhibition and parenting, using parent and teacher reports and observational data. Families are assessed at three time points: baseline, post-treatment (or at approximately 8 weeks for the control group), and 2 month follow-up.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Child must be attending preschool; child must score within top 15% on parent-rated Behavioral Inhibition Questionnaire; child has a biological parent with at least 50% physical custody who consents to participate

Exclusion Criteria:

• Child has a diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder or mental retardation; child scores above clinical cutoff on Social Communication Questionnaire; child is currently receiving treatment for anxiety