Behavior therapy is considered probably efficacious for childhood depression, and a number of other experimental interventions show promise but require further evaluation.12 Currently, only 2 research
groups have
focused on psychosocial interventions for childhood bipolar disorder.13 - 15 Hence, increased attention to creation and
testing of treatments specifically targeting depression and bipolar disorder in children is needed.16 In particular, studies should
focus on children's developmental needs, address comorbidity, involve family members in treatment, demonstrate treatment gains as rated by parents and clinicians rather than children themselves, and compare experimental interventions with standard care or treatment as
usual (TAU) rather than no - treatment or attention control
groups.12, 17,18 In addition, parental psychopathology may affect treatment adherence and response.