For separation anxiety disorder in a child, what is the recommended approach?

• A. Discipline and reward system
• B. Therapy-focused treatment rather than discipline
• C. Antibiotics
• D. Surgery

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that separation anxiety disorder in a child is best addressed with therapy-focused treatment rather than punishment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps the child identify and challenge anxious thoughts about being apart from caregivers, learn coping skills, and undergo gradual, structured exposure to separation to reduce fear. Pairing this with parent management training shows caregivers how to respond supportively, avoid reinforcing avoidance, keep predictable routines, and praise brave progress. This approach tackles the underlying anxiety directly and usually improves functioning at home and at school. Discipline-based strategies don’t treat the anxiety and can worsen distress, while antibiotics or surgery have no role in this condition.