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Family Processes in Child and Adolescent Anxiety and Depression

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 October 2014

Mark R. Dadds  and
Paula M. Barrett
Mark R. Dadds*
Affiliation:
Griffith University
Paula M. Barrett
Affiliation:
Griffith University
*
School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, QLD 4111, Australia. E-mail: m.dadds@hbs.gu.edu.au
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Abstract

Anxiety and depression tend to run in families. This paper reviews some of the family processes that are implicated in the development, maintenance, and treatment of these problems in children and adolescents. Empirical studies and our theoretical review show that social learning processes within the context of intimate relationships are important in the development of anxiety and depression. Family processes have been shown to be important in the treatment of anxiety disorders but parallel evidence is lacking with regard to depression in adolescents. Two models are shown to have demonstrated explanatory power and empirical support: social learning theory and attachment theory. Examples are given of how these models can be contrasted and integrated at both clinical and theoretical levels.

Type
Research Article
Information
Behaviour Change , Volume 13 , Issue 4: Special Issue — Part II: Internalising Disorders of Children and Adolescents , December 1996 , pp. 231 - 239
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s) 1996

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References

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