The Efficacy of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy in Managing Anxiety in Children with Learning Disability

A study was initiated with the goal to find the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavior Therapy in reducing anxiety in children with learning disability. To begin with, fifty one children in the age group of 9-15 years were selected by measuring their IQ level in the range 70 - 120. The sample comprised of children with Low Intelligence Quotient (IQ) to High Average IQ. Intelligence quotient was measured using Malin’s Intelligence Scale for Indian Children (Malin, 1971).  The learning disability children were identified based on the IQ range. They were assessed using Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (Birmaher, 1997) to find the presence of anxiety. The findings reveal that the majority of the children suffered with separation anxiety disorder and the related anxiety disorders. Cognitive Behavior Therapy was introduced as psychological intervention strategy and reassessment was made after a week using Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) for the presence of anxiety in children with learning disability. Administration of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy had a significant impact in reducing the overall anxiety and the related disorders. The study was conducted in Rashmika Centre for Learning and Counselling, Coimbatore and Helikx, the Open School and Learning Centre, Salem.