An Occupation-Based Group for Children with Anxiety

Abstract

Introduction:

Anxiety significantly affects children in middle childhood, impacting on functioning and predicting future mental health problems. Despite this, there is little literature describing occupational therapy for this population. This preliminary study evaluated the acceptability and outcomes of an occupation-based group for children with anxiety aged 10–14 years.

Method:

The group employed developmentally appropriate occupations to teach and participate in cognitive, behavioural and functional skills for managing anxiety. The five outcome measures used were the Beck Youth Inventories, Occupational Questionnaire, Child Behaviour Checklist, Health of the Nation Outcome Scales for Children and Adolescents, and Children's Global Assessment Scale. Acceptability was measured by attendance and outcome measures were taken at pre-group and post-group (n = 34). Data were examined using repeated measures t-tests.

Results:

All 34 participants completed the intervention, with 87.9% attendance. Parent-rated child anxiety decreased, as did clinician-rated factors inhibiting optimal functional performance, and clinician-rated overall child functioning increased. No significant changes in child-rated measures were reported.

Conclusion:

Preliminary findings were that the occupation-based group for children with anxiety aged 10–14 years was an acceptable and beneficial intervention for reducing parent-rated and clinician-rated symptoms of anxiety while increasing functioning.