‘Coping cat’ - A CBT modality for Indian children with high anxiety

Abstract

Aim

This study aimed to examine the efficacy of the Coping Cat program, a CBT intervention, for Indian children (11–13 years) with high anxiety.

Methodology

A total of 240 children were screened, and 120 children with high anxiety were randomly assigned to either a treatment group (n = 60) or a control group (n = 60). The Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale (SCAS), Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and Child Anxiety Impact Scale (CAIS) were used to assess anxiety symptoms and related outcomes. Systematic random sampling was employed to select participants.

Intervention

The therapeutic process consisted of a modified CBT protocol, comprising 16 sessions of 40–45 minutes each. The Coping Cat program was specifically designed to address anxiety symptoms in children.

Data Analysis

A linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze the data, accounting for both fixed effects (e.g., time and intervention) and random effects (e.g., individual differences). This approach was particularly suited for the repeated-measures design. A follow-up study was conducted one year after the intervention to assess its long-term effects.

Results

Significant differences were observed between the treatment and control groups, indicating the efficacy of the Coping Cat program in reducing anxiety symptoms. Notably, treatment gains were maintained at the one-year follow-up. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the Coping Cat program is an effective CBT-based intervention for reducing anxiety symptoms in highly anxious children.

Conclusion

The results indicated the efficacy of Coping Cat CBT in highly anxious young children.

Plain Language Summary

The present research aims to explore the scientific strategies and methods using an established CBT manual to help young children aged 11–13 years to recognise, understand and learn coping skills to overcome and handle their severe fears, and feelings of nervousness, raised due to any difficult situations. Also, acknowledge their physical symptoms and practice ways to overcome them gradually.