Summary and Conclusions
Despite its relatively recent recognition as a distinct clinical entity, SAD has emerged as a common disorder associated with significant impairment in psychosocial functioning that follows a chronic and unremitting course. Relatively little is known about the etiology of SAD, although research points to the importance of both biological and environmental factors. Several useful assessment instruments with reasonably good psychometric properties have been developed. In addition, several effective treatments have emerged, including CBT programs and several medications. Unfortunately, the majority of persons diagnosed with SAD do not obtain treatment of any kind, and even among those who seek treatment, many do not receive an empirically supported intervention. Future clinical innovation and research is needed to target treatment-resistant patients, including those who benefit only partially from current treatments. In addition, dissemination efforts are needed to make effective treatment available to all those who suffer from this potentially debilitating condition. Finally, the majority of the research to date has focused on adults with SAD, with work with children and adolescents lagging far behind. Research targeting pediatric populations is especially critical to the goal of prevention and early intervention of SAD.