Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for an Indian Adolescent With Depression

Abstract

This case study describes the treatment of an adolescent male, referred to as ML, who presented with a significant decline in academic performance coupled with a difficulty in coping with parental pressure. A formal assessment revealed the signs of moderate depression with anxiety features, especially on the dimensions of tension and guilt proneness. He was treated with 12 sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) along with group sessions of family therapy and interpersonal therapy. ML’s progress throughout treatment is detailed in this case study report. Results lend support to the body of case series studies attesting to the efficacy of CBT for use with adolescents with depression and anxiety, further implicating the importance of the role played by the parents in the conceptualization, maintenance, as well as treatment of the adolescent.