The effects of a probiotic supplement on symptoms of anxiety in children
LE3 .A278 2014
2014
Potter, Susan
Acadia University
Bachelor of Science
Honours
Psychology
There are currently no medications approved by Health Canada for the treatment of anxiety in children. The current study, therefore, investigated the therapeutic effects of a natural treatment, probiotics, on child anxiety. At the time of writing, five children had completed a four-‐week period during which they consumed either probiotics (two children) or placebo (three children) daily. Parents completed the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED), and children older than seven completed the child version, at the beginning and end of each phase. The results are described in a series of case reports. After consuming probiotics, Child A reported a decrease in anxiety, whereas the anxiety symptoms of Child B showed little change. In the placebo group, Child C showed a placebo effect, whereas Child D and Child E reported an increase in anxiety. These data suggest that probiotics may be helpful for some children with anxiety.
The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.
https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:1117
