Insight Matters
Spring, 2003

UHC/CWRU Recognizes Need for C/A Research
Robert L. Findling, M.D., Director, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University

There is clearly a need for clinical research in child/adolescent psychiatry. Approximately 20 percent of children and adolescents in the United States suffer from an emotional or behavioral disorder that is associated with substantial impairment. These young people and their families oftentimes struggle with the emotional, academic, and interpersonal difficulties that accompany these conditions. Unfortunately, there is a paucity of empirically based data to help inform clinicians how best to meet the needs of these young people and their families.
For the past decade, members within the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University Hospitals of Cleveland/Case Western Reserve University have been extensively involved in treatment research. At present time, there are seven active investigators on faculty within the Division.
Since 1996, the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has been fortunate enough to have a Stanley Medical Research Institute Clinical Research Center (CRC) that has focused on the assessment and treatment of pediatric bipolar disorder. Treatment research in the CRC has concentrated on novel interventions early in the course of bipolar illness. Particular areas of focus include: 1) studying new medication treatments; 2) addressing the treatment needs of children and adolescents who have a parent with bipolar illness; 3) creating means to more accurately assess this condition in the young, and; 4) developing effective psychotherapies for these young people. The NIH, other foundations, and the pharmaceutical industry also support research within the Division.
In addition, numerous other studies that have included psychotherapy and/or medication treatments for children and adolescents with numerous other conditions have been completed within the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. These treatment studies included patients suffering from juvenile schizophrenia, depression, substance abuse, ADHD (in children, adolescents, and adults), aggression, anxiety disorders, and autistic disorder.
Ongoing trials includes acute and maintenance components and are examining the treatment of adolescents with co-morbid substance abuse and mood disorders, the pharmacotherapy of child/adolescent schizophrenia, and child/adolescent depression. Studies that are planned to begin within the next year include trials that will examine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy in pediatric bipolar disorder, pharmacological treatment of young children with symptoms of mania, medication for adults with ADHD, interventions for aggressive children, and treatment studies testing interventions for children and teens at genetic high-risk for developing bipolar disorder.

For more information about clinical research programs within the Child/Adolescent Psychiatry at University Hospitals of Cleveland/Case Western Reserve University, call 216-8443922.

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