Exploring the cognitive and behavioural mechanisms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder in adolescents: A reflexive thematic analysis (AnDY Research Clinic Project ID: A02)

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is common in adolescents and has a considerable negative impact on psychological, social, and academic functioning. However, existing models and their subsequent treatment approaches have been developed for adults, and little research has explored GAD within clinical populations of adolescents. It is vital to fill this gap, given that current remission rates for GAD in children and adolescents following cognitive-behavioural treatments are reported at just 53%, and therefore greater understanding of the maintenance mechanisms of GAD is needed to develop more effective interventions. In this study, we will use a qualitative approach (semi-structured interviews and reflexive thematic analysis) to explore lived experiences of 11-18 year-olds who have a primary or secondary diagnosis of GAD. We will study whether cognitive and behavioural processes identified in adult models (e.g., intolerance of uncertainty, safety-seeking behaviours and threat beliefs) also feature in experiences of GAD in adolescents. Additionally, we will investigate processes such as clinical perfectionism, which overlap with GAD on a conceptual level, yet have not been assessed in young people with the disorder. Findings will guide the design of future studies, which aim to inform the development of a disorder-specific, developmentally appropriate cognitive model of GAD in adolescents.