Psychosocial Interventions for Genetically Influenced Problems in Childhood and Adolescence

A guide to weighing the genetic factors when selecting effective psychosocial interventions

Psychosocial Interventions for Genetically Influenced Problems in Childhood and Adolescence offers an accessible guide and well-researched assessment of the most current knowledge, both of the genome and evidence-based treatments, for treating young people who present with a variety of conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, substance abuse, and dyslexia. The text also contains information on how interventions may be adapted as the products of genomic research continue to develop. Written for clinicians, policymakers, and others invested in working with youth, this important book is filled with up-to-date research findings, practical advice, effective interventions, and illustrative examples.

Designed as a useful resource, the book puts the focus on what professionals can do right now to improve the lives of children and adolescents, using environmental designs combined with the growing sophistication about how genes have their influence. The book includes a valuable and illuminating discussion of how empirically-supported interventions mesh with genetic vulnerabilities.

The author also reveals when “reprogramming” genetically influenced pathways via the environment are most appropriate and explores how the effects of genes may be circumvented or shaped. The author includes compelling examples in which genes and environment seem to be inextricably linked, but in surprising ways that can direct new ways of thinking about changing the result of that mix by manipulating the environment.

While the burgeoning field of genomic research holds great promise for the future, this important text shows how today’s clinicians can use the emerging knowledge about genetics and integrate it with non-biological approaches to effective treatment.