Family Factors in the Development and Management of Anxiety Disorders.

Theoretic models of anxiety disorders have emphasized the impact of caregiving on the development and maintenance of childhood anxiety. Familial factors demonstrate a reciprocal relationship with child anxiety, including family stressors, parenting control, and family accommodation. The inclusion of parents in intervention for youth anxiety has demonstrated a superior outcome in several studies and is recommended as an area to evaluate when child anxiety is presented for assessment and treatment. This review examines familial variables in their contribution to clinical levels of anxiety in youth, focusing on genetic, family environment, and parental behaviors and recommendations for prevention and treatment intervention.