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Computerized CBT (Think, Feel, Do) for Depression and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents: Outcomes and Feedback from a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 January 2011

Paul Stallard ,
Thomas Richardson ,
Sophie Velleman  and
Megan Attwood
Paul Stallard*
Affiliation:
University of Bath, UK
Thomas Richardson
Affiliation:
University of Bath, UK
Sophie Velleman
Affiliation:
University of Bath, UK
Megan Attwood
Affiliation:
University of Bath, UK
*
Reprint requests to Paul Stallard, Mental Health Research and Development Unit (MHRDU), School for Health, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, UK. E-mail: p.stallard@bath.ac.uk
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Abstract

Background: Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of computerized cognitive behaviour therapy (cCBT) for depression and anxiety in adults, but there has been little work with children and adolescents. Aims: To describe the development of a cCBT intervention (Think, Feel, Do) for young people, and preliminary outcomes and feedback from a pilot randomized controlled trial. Method: Twenty participants aged 11 to 16 with depression or anxiety were randomized to receive cCBT immediately or after a delay. Standardized measures were used to assess self-reported anxiety, depression, self-esteem and cognitions, as well as parent rated strengths and difficulties. A feedback form was also completed to assess young people's views of the programme. Results: A total of 15 participants completed the pre and post assessments in the trial, and 17 provided feedback on the intervention. Paired samples t-tests demonstrated significant improvements on 3 subscales in the control condition, compared to 7 subscales in the cCBT condition. Feedback showed moderate to high satisfaction for participants. Conclusions: This study provides encouraging preliminary results for the effectiveness and acceptability of cCBT with this age group.

Keywords

ChildrenadolescentsCBTcomputerdepressionanxiety
Type
Research Article
Information
Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy , Volume 39 , Issue 3 , May 2011 , pp. 273 - 284
Copyright
Copyright © British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies 2011

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