The results were found to be similar with regards to the scales of RCMAS (a 37 item measure), STAIC (for the 20 item state scale measure only), CDI (a 27 item measure) and FSSC-R (an 80 item measure). The trait scale of STAIC showed a few variations but was not strong enough when the Bonferroni correction was applied. The CASI scale presented a higher occurrence in the second group compared to the first, regardless of Bonferroni corrections. This amounted to at least 16 of the 18 items. The remaining two items, recorded higher in the second group can be considered to be of an external nature. The origins of these differences were obtained using t-test analysis methods (Kearney, Albano, Eisen, Allan & Barlow, 1997) Conclusions of the research

The conclusions drawn from the study participants with panic disorder revealed nausea, shivering, difficulties in breathing and increased heart rate as the recurring symptoms. These results match the studies in the past such as those conducted by Kearney & Allan in 1995 and Kearney & Silverman in 1992. Most of the locations avoided as a part of the study (such as stores, restaurants etc.) had groups of people involved. This tendency however cannot be considered to be extreme. The results complied with the theory which considered young individuals to have a greater chance of developing depression when they have panic disorder compared to when they don't. They did not meet the terms of the theory which states panic disorder patients to have a greater chance of developing separation anxiety or substance use disorders. CDI measures did not demonstrate any dissimilarity between the two groups. No verifiable disparities were observed with regards to fearfulness or specific anxiety, except a slightly higher occurrence in individuals with panic disorder. They demonstrated a greater apprehension over physical difficulties such as breathing problems. Some recommendations could be offered as a result of the outcomes of this study. Practitioners responsible for treating these patients can apply cognitive therapy along with the traditional methods. Pharmacotherapy can be essential to related issues such as cognitive deformations, depression tendencies, and somatic objections...

The individuals of the first group had the presence of primary diagnoses along with additional ones. This was essential in developing a strong outpatient youth sample for panic disorder. A higher severity of the primary form compared to the additional diagnostic form was the only difference observed. Another limitation was the variation in results due to the inclusion of a strategic configuration in the procedures. While this was done in compliance with the original plan, it reduced the chances of the validity of the results being jeopardized. The reliance on self reporting measures in evaluating the groups can be regarded as another limitation. The fact that adolescents themselves are the best ones to convey their own symptoms made this approach acceptable (Kearney, Albano, Eisen, Allan & Barlow, 1997).
My analysis

While the current results are decent enough, future evaluations in the field of panic disorder needs to incorporate physiological parameters such as heart rate and hormonal balance levels, additional ratings from parents and teachers along with direct conclusions drawn from avoidance and escape tendencies. Researchers need to delve deeper into the progress of panic disorders in the younger age groups. The first few instances are usually found in individuals during their developmental stage. The origins of some assumptions presented in the current study can be obtained from longitudinal approaches. The results of this study fell short in establishing a link between anxiety and panic attributed to separation. This necessitates a better examination of adolescents with panic disorder, especially with severe behavioral avoidance tendencies. Adequate information of this group would aid in helping practitioners gain a better understanding in order to devise a potential cure (Kearney, Albano, Eisen, Allan & Barlow, 1997)

References

Kearney, C, A, Albano, A, M, Eisen, A, R, Allan, W, D & Barlow, D, H. (1997) The Phenomenology of Panic Disorders…