Treatment of Social Anxiety Disorder: A Case Study of a 14-Year-Old
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Author
Schone, Shelby
Publisher
Washburn University
Sponsor
Department of Psychology
Issue Date
Rights
Alternative Title
Abstract
The following is a de-identified case study that presents the treatment process and
outcome for a 14-year-old female with social anxiety disorder (SAD). To maintain
confidentiality “Emily” will be used in lieu of the client’s real name. Emily presented for
treatment after moving to a new state and struggling to make friends at her new school. Emily’s
goals for treatment were to feel more comfortable in social situations, increase motivation to
make friends, and learn coping skills for her anxiety. This case study reviews the scientific
literature to provide theoretically grounded conceptualizations of the etiology and maintenance
of SAD, reports psychometric properties of diagnostic assessments used in differential diagnosis
and to track treatment progress, and describes empirical evidence in support of using Cognitive
Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat SAD in adolescents. Following an overview of how the
elements of CBT are employed to treat SAD, the components of CBT used in Emily’s treatment
are discussed, which included multiple diagnostic assessments, psychoeducation, cognitive
restructuring, and exposure therapy. This case study concludes with a complete transcript of one
entire session, followed by a self-critique of this therapist’s strengths and weaknesses.
Description
An Empirically Supported Treatment Case Study