Anxiety disorders constitute the most commonly diagnosed problem in children and adolescents (Prout & Brown, 2007). Young children often develop fears or phobias of imaginary objects, animals, the dark, and heights. Adolescents frequently develop fears of death, criticism, failure, and the fear of the unknown. Many of the interventions used for child and adolescent phobias focus on behavioral techniques such as desensitization, imagery, and social skills training. Consider fear of the dark, for example, and the techniques used by some parents like leaving on a nightlight and sitting with the child until he or she falls asleep. External factors such as the environment, culture, society, family, and contemporary media also can influence the development and persistence of a phobia. How might you as a clinician help parents or guardians intervene?

For this Discussion, select a common child or adolescent phobia and consider the external factors that may contribute to its development and persistence.

With these thoughts in mind:

By Day 3

Post a brief description of a common child or adolescent fear or phobia other than fear of the dark. Then, explain at least three contemporary factors (environment, culture, society, family, or media) that may contribute to the development and persistence of the phobia, and explain how. Finally, explain one way you might help the parents/guardians support their child or adolescent to overcome the fear or phobia, and explain how. Be specific.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the weeks resources.

Required Readings

As you review this article, consider the new fears in children and adolescents that have developed in the 21st century. Focus on the types of interventions that might be used for treatment.

As you review this article, consider the types of phobias evident in children and adolescents. Focus on the types of treatment available for these types of phobias.