Parental Involvement in Remotely Delivered CBT Interventions for Anxiety Problems in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Remotely delivered interventions for childhood anxiety disorders (e.g., delivered via telephone, Internet, computer, serious games, or apps) are efficient in mental health problems, surpassing concerns in the dissemination of evidence-based treatment. The present study aims to conduct a systematic review of parental involvement in remote cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions for child anxiety disorders. The main objectives are (1) to present the state of the art of existent knowledge on parental involvement in remotely delivered CBT interventions for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents and (2) to propose a conceptual model which could be considered in designing effective remotely delivered interventions for anxious youth. Research methods: Two independent raters conducted comprehensive systematic searches of electronic databases (PsychInfo, Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) up to April 10, 2016. We have included eight remote CBT interventions and presented their characteristics. Conclusion: Parental involvement in remotely delivered CBT interventions for child anxiety treatment is important to consider; however, more randomized controlled trials need to be conducted. Tailoring such interventions according to child-parent factors, child-parent relationship quality, and treatment preferences has been suggested. Finally, a new conceptual model has been proposed, which could guide future research.