The developmental psychopathology of detection and dual control – a commentary on Fox et al. (2023)

Abstract

Behavioral inhibition in early life is among the robust predictors of later anxiety problems, particularly social anxiety, one of the most pressing mental health concerns across the lifespan. However, the predictive relation is far from perfect. Fox et al. reviewed the literature and their Detection and Dual Control framework to emphasize the role of moderators in the etiology of social anxiety. In doing so, they exemplify a developmental psychopathology approach. This commentary aligns the core features of Fox et al.'s review and theoretical model with specific tenets of developmental psychopathology. These tenets provide a structure for integrating the Detection and Dual Control framework with other developmental psychopathology models and guiding future directions for the field.

Editorial: Thinking outside the box – enhancing causal models of neurodevelopmental disorders

“…Vergunst et al, 2023). The findings are in line with the accumulating evidence suggesting that emotion dysregulation might be a central driver of psychopathology more broadly (Evans & Shaughnessy, 2024). Over the last decade, findings reporting shared risk factors, high comorbidity rates and overlapping symptoms between disorders have raised questions about how useful the distinction between diagnostic categories still is (for a detailed discussion see JCPP-Editorial by Fisher, 2022).…”

“…Third, causal models need to be extended to incorporate a better understanding of the causal pathways between neurobiological risk factors (at the genetic, brain and cognitive levels), and their interaction with environmental risk factors. As highlighted by Evans and Shaughnessy (2024) in this issue, understanding the mechanisms that drive changes in psychopathology is not only of theoretical interest but is crucial for developing more tailored and effective interventions.…”

Editorial: Unsettling ‘settled’ science – the importance of questioning received wisdom about the causes of mental health and neuro‐developmental conditions

“…Again, this model challenges conventional wisdom by demonstrating that there is more than one attentional process implicated in the etiology of anxiety disorders; whereas attention to threat may increase the risk for anxiety, the ability to flexibly shift attention has been shown to reduce risk. Fox et al extend this model by describing how specific parenting practices might moderate pathways from behavioral inhibition to later anxiety, with Kiel (2023) amplifying this point in her commentary and highlighting the bidirectional nature of child temperament and parental behavior.…”