Faber, Jessica2019-08-202019-08-202019-06https://hdl.handle.net/11299/206189University of Minnesota M.A. thesis. June 2019. Major: Psychology. Advisors: Stephanie Carlson, Monica Luciana. 1 computer file (PDF); v, 90 pages pages.The current review examines anxiety disorders in childhood, with particular focus on mechanisms that would conceivably rely on processes supported by executive function. In accordance with the DSM-V organization, the following anxiety disorders are considered based on typical age of onset and prevalence in early childhood: separation anxiety, social anxiety, and specific phobia. Following this exploration of anxiety disorders, this review will present an overview of executive function, including normative developmental trajectory, prominent models of executive function organization, influential factors, and associations with long-term outcomes. Drawing from the research bases of executive function and psychopathology, this paper will explore potential theoretical connections between executive function and anxiety in addition to critical examination of empirical support linking executive function based skills to anxiety. In particular, the role of executive function in the maintenance of anxiety will be investigated. Intervention for anxiety will also be examined with a focus on mechanisms of change that draw upon executive function skills. Keywords: executive function, anxiety disorders, child anxietyenanxiety disorderschild anxietyexecutive functionThesis or Dissertation