An Adaptation of Perceived Causal Networks for Children and Adolescents (PECAN-CA): An Evaluation of its Reliability and Feasibility

The network theory of psychopathology allows for personalized psychotherapy through individualized symptom networks, but constructing such networks remains methodologically challenging. Perceived Causal Networks (PECAN) offers a promising approach by capturing individuals' perceived symptom relations. This study adapted PECAN for children and adolescents (PECAN-CA) and assessed its reliability and feasibility in N = 75 subclinically socially anxious participants (10-21 years, M = 15.23, SD = 4.07). Participants created networks based on a past social situation. Retest reliability was tested immediately and after four weeks, comparing results to prior studies applying PECAN to adults and adolescents. Networks generated were comparably reliable to those from PECAN studies with adults and more reliable than those from PECAN studies with adolescents. Centrality measures, critical for clinical decisions, showed high reliability (r = 0.89-0.95). Older age and better understanding of network concepts improved outcomes. Selecting fewer symptoms increased reliability. Most participants found the method feasible. Overall, PECAN-CA appears suitable for generating reliable personalized networks in youth, though adaptations such as psychoeducation and reducing number of selected symptoms may be necessary for younger individuals.