CONTRIBUTIONS OF COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ANXIETY IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Anxiety is one of the main mental disorders in the world and approximately 10% of children present a picture of pathological anxiety, a mental state that contributes to many harms to their development. Thus, the importance of effective psychological treatments for anxiety disorders in childhood is shown. Objective: This study aims to conduct an integrative literature review on the contributions of cognitive behavioral therapy in the clinical management of anxiety in children. Methodology: Integrative literature review, using the Virtual Health Library database, due to its relevance in the publication of scientific literature both in the national and international scenario, taking into account inclusion/exclusion criteria and using a methodological design by the PICO strategy. Results: The results showed that CBT contributes to the management of anxiety symptoms in children, especially when there is collaboration between therapists and parents, increasing the effectiveness of the treatment. Conclusion: CBT is a first-line therapeutic intervention for anxiety in children and more studies need to be developed to expand the possibilities of its application with this audience.