Risk factors of anxiety disorders in children and adolescents: A review

Abstract

This review presents the main findings in current literature about risk factors for anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. Individual child variables, such as temperament, self-esteem and gender, are first described. Genetic, family and social factors are then reviewed. Two models that integrate all these factors and help to understand the development of anxiety disorders in childhood are introduced. Conclusions are that, although much is known about the factors that intervene in these disorders, their etiology is stili to be clarified. The need to consider the confluence or interaction among multiple factors in order to understand the etiology of anxiety disorders, rather than isolated effects, is emphasized.