Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

HILARY VIDAIR, PH.D.

Second Advisor

ERIN RIVELIS, PH.D.

Third Advisor

EVA FEINDLER, PH.D.

Abstract

Emetophobia has been cited in the literature as one of the least understood and largely understudied anxiety disorders and is estimated to impact 2-7% of the population (Boschen, 2007; Graziano et al., 2010; Hunter & Anthony, 2009; Marks, 1987; Veale & Lambrou, 2006). Even less is known about emetophobia in children, and research has primarily focused on case studies to highlight the phenomenology of emetophobia as well as the trajectory of treatment (Graziano et al., 2010). Given the limited knowledge on emetophobia, few resources exist to aid and facilitate treatment (i.e., children’s storybooks or treatment manuals). Including children’s books in treatment has been found to be successful in addressing a variety of social, emotional, and behavioral concerns with children (Heath et al., 2017). The purpose of this project was to highlight the need for a children’s storybook on emetophobia and to create a book to enhance treatment for children who have a fear of vomiting or serve as a standalone resource for families. A literature review has been conducted on emetophobia and bibliotherapy to demonstrate the utility of children’s books in treatment. Existing children’s storybooks for anxiety disorders were reviewed to determine the number of evidenced-based practices. Results indicated that the storybooks reviewed had an average of 3.5 evidence-based practices embedded within their narratives. Finally, a children’s book proposal with 10 evidence-based practices was developed for submission to the American Psychological Association (APA), which includes a complete manuscript with accompanying reader’s note and a query letter with a brief synopsis of the book and a description of the intended audience. This storybook can serve as an adjunct to the treatment of emetophobia, allowing for the integration of bibliotherapy into treatment, which has not been previously possible. A children’s book on this topic also serves as an accessible and alternative option for the delivery format of mental health services for children suffering from emetophobia.

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