Specific Phobias

Abstract

Specific phobias are highly prevalent, affecting 5-10 % of children and adolescents in community samples and 15 % in mental health settings. Phobic youth experience significant interference and distress in their day-to-day lives and are at an increased risk of academic and social difficulties as well as adult psychopathology. Phobias have a complex etiology, developing from a multiplicity of factors including genetics, learning history, parenting, and evolutionary preparedness. This chapter reviews empirically supported assessment and treatment interventions for phobic youth. Strong empirical support currently exists for cognitive and behavioral treatments. In particular, the chapter focuses on the one-session treatment (OST) approach, which incorporates cognitive behavioral techniques into an intensive (3-h) treatment package. OST is a cost-effective and rapid treatment for phobic youth, with four randomized trials in four different countries now supporting its use. A case report illustrating the implementation of this treatment is presented. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved). (chapter)