Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to anxiety disorders if they have a parent with a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety.  This is partly because there is a genetic component to these disorders, but also partly because the beliefs and behaviours that contribute to and sustain depression and anxiety are modeled and reinforced by the parent, such as when children who fear going to school are allowed to stay home.

Children and adolescents who fear social situations may not be given the reassurance they need because their dysfunctional behaviours and beliefs may be shared by an anxious parent.