A randomized controlled trial of the Cool Teens CD-ROM computerized program for adolescent anxiety

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Digital Health

Background:

• Computerized cognitive behavioral interventions (cCBT) are effective for adult anxiety.
• Limited data exist on cCBT for adolescent anxiety.
• Adolescents may benefit from and engage well with computerized treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the Cool Teens program, a cCBT intervention for adolescent anxiety.
• To explore potential treatment barriers and user preferences for computerized technology in this population.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 43 adolescents with anxiety disorders.
• Participants were allocated to either the 12-week Cool Teens program or a 12-week waitlist control.
• Outcomes measured included anxiety disorder diagnosis, symptom severity, negative thoughts, and life interference via self, maternal, and diagnostic reports at post-treatment and 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• Adolescents in the Cool Teens group showed significant reductions in the number and severity of anxiety disorders compared to the waitlist group.
• Both self and maternal reports indicated significant decreases in anxiety symptoms, internalizing symptoms, automatic thoughts, and life interference.
• Few barriers to treatment were identified, and user feedback indicated the program was well-suited for anxious adolescents.

Conclusions:

• The Cool Teens program is an efficacious treatment for adolescent anxiety.
• Computerized cognitive behavioral therapy presents a viable and well-accepted option for managing anxiety in adolescents.