Behavioural Inhibition as a Risk Factor for Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Abstract

Mood and anxiety disorders are leading causes of disability worldwide. Thus, early intervention strategies are needed. Behavioural inhibition (BI) has been proposed as a risk factor for these disorders, however, the strength and specifity of these associations are unclear. In study 1, using meta-analysis methodology I established the prospective relationship between BI and anxiety disorders. I found BI in childhood was a significant predictor of anxiety at follow-up. In study 2, I investigated BI using an observational assessment in 59 preschool-aged children of parents with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and controls. I found BI was most strongly associated with parental diagnosis of anxiety disorders, although this relationship did not reach statistical significance. These findings suggest BI is a strong risk factor for anxiety, and may be a marker of familial risk for anxiety disorders. Targeting BI, especially in children of parents with anxiety, may be beneficial for developmental outcomes.