Exploring How Effective, Acceptable, and Practical a CBT-Sensory Modulation Approach Is for Supporting Children Aged...

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Pediatric Mental Health

Background:

• Childhood anxiety rates are rising globally, particularly post-COVID-19.
• Limited evidence-based interventions exist for children under 7.
• A novel six-session CBT-SM program was developed for children aged 4-7.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the effectiveness of a CBT-SM intervention for childhood anxiety.
• Assess the acceptability and practicality of the intervention delivered via CAMHS.
• Provide accessible anxiety management tools for young children.

Main Methods:

• Single-case experimental design (SCED) with six children (4-7 years old) diagnosed with anxiety.
• Inclusion of children with sensory challenges.
• Psychologist assessments and parent questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in anxiety and improved overall functioning observed.
• High acceptability reported by parents and therapists.
• 67% of children no longer met anxiety diagnosis criteria post-intervention and at follow-up.

Conclusions:

• The CBT-SM intervention shows preliminary effectiveness for childhood anxiety.
• The program is acceptable and practical for delivery in community mental health services.
• This approach offers a viable option for managing anxiety in young children.