Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Effectiveness

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Introduction Depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders among school-aged youth, with high prevalence and far-reaching consequences (Probst, 2008). “School Phobia and excessive clinging to parents may be symptoms of depression in children. Poor academic performance, substance abuse, antisocial behavior, sexual promiscuity, truancy, and running away may be symptoms of depression in adolescents” (Sadock & Sadock, 2003, p. 554). Depression in adolescents often is an unremitting disorder that predicts ongoing depression and psychosocial impairment (Kratochvil et. at., 2005). It affects the developmental process, resulting in difficulties with concentration and motivation, leading to poor academic performance, impaired social functioning, disruption in identity development, and high risk of both substance abuse and suicide (Probst, 2008). In this paper I will give a description of several research studies that explores the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) when working with children and adolescents diagnosed with depression. CBT is derived from cognitive theory and behavioral theory. It focuses on identifying irrational, distorted and/or maladaptive patterns of cognition and belief, replacing them with more realistic thoughts and thereby modifying both emotions and behavior (Probst, 2008). The use of CBT with adolescents that have depression involved the application of specific, empirically supported strategies focused on depressogenic information processing and behavior (McGinn, 2000). Personally, I believe that CBT is effective when working with children and adolescents diagnosed with depression. However, without the evaluation of research it will be difficult to distinguish effectiven... ... middle of paper ... ...J., Simmons, A., Vltiello, B., Walkup, J., Emslie, G., Rosenburg, D., March, J. (2005). A Multisite Psychotherapy and Medication Trial for Depressed Adolescents: Background and Benefits. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 12(2), 159-165 McGinn, L. K. (2000). Cognitive behavioral therapy of depression: Theory, treatment, and empirical status. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 54(2), 257-262. O’ Connor T, G. & Creswell C. (2005). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Children and Adolescents. (2nd Edition) Cambridge University Press. Probst, B. (2008). Issues in Portability of Evidence-Based Treatment for Adolescent Depression. Child & Adolescent Social Work Journal, 25(2), 111-123. Sadock, B. J. & Sadock, V.A. (2003). Synopsis of psychiatry: Behavioral sciences/clinical psychiatry (9th Ed). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. (p.544)

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