Program Structure

1. Assessment

Children are screened regarding their suitability for the program. Information is collected from the family and school in order to specify the problems and clarify the situation.

2. Treatment

All participants will receive Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) - parents and teachers are advised on practical behaviour management strategies and various procedures are used to help the child cope with his or her anxieties about school. In addition to this some children will be administered antidepressant medication.

CBT involves talking about anxiety and/or depression and developing positive ways to cope. Medication involves being treated with an anti-anxiety/anti-depressant named fluoxetine, also known as Lovan. Previous research has shown both CBT and fluoxetine to be effective in treating anxiety and depressive disorders in childhood and adolescence. Treatment involves comparing CBT alone, to CBT with fluoxetine, and to CBT and placebo (a sugar tablet).

3. Follow-up

Children are assessed at various follow-up periods after treatment. This involves interviews and assessment of school attendance.