The Development, Feasibility and Acceptability of an Enhanced Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Adults with Anxiety Disorders Parenting an Anxious Child

Anxiety disorders commonly occur within families. Yet most adult treatment does not consider how parenting an anxious child could maintain a parent’s anxiety. This thesis aimed to develop a systemically-informed treatment for anxious adults parenting an anxious child and investigate treatment feasibility and acceptability. Results indicated the treatment was valued, could reduce anxiety symptoms, and appeared to meet parents’ needs. Results also helped to better understand the reciprocal relationship between anxiety disorder maintenance amongst parents and children. The findings are an important first step toward incorporating accessible and effective treatment in routine care for anxious adults parenting an anxious child.