Date of Award

Spring 5-2025

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Metzger, Jay

Keywords

PCIT, child anxiety, child depression, selective mutism, parent-child interaction therapy, childhood anxiety, GAD, CBT, MCT-c, moderators of treatment outcomes

Abstract

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent mental health condition in children, characterized by persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily functioning and overall quality of life. Anxiety disorders are considered the most common psychiatric disorders among children. The trajectory of untreated anxiety in early life can result in more resistant and chronic presentations in the future, complicating both therapeutic engagement and outcomes. Parent- Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) has emerged as a potential alternative treatment for children displaying anxiety symptoms, particularly those diagnosed with GAD. This literature review endeavors to assess the effectiveness of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy as an alternative treatment for children diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder in comparison to the widely endorsed cognitive behavior therapy. A literature review was performed using electronic databases PsycINFO and PubMed. Mesh words included adolescent, anxiety disorders/therapy, child, cognitive behavioral therapy/methods, female, humans, implosive therapy/methods, male, parents, treatment outcomes. A total of 7 articles were included in for this study. Current research suggests that PCIT is as effective if not more effective than CBT. Applying this to clinical settings could help treat children with GAD and reduce the risk of complicating therapeutic engagement and outcomes if treatment were delayed. Addressing childhood anxiety, through evidence-based practices, remains a vital public health priority, and advancing our understanding of PCIT may play a crucial role in this endeavor.

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