So What? Implications of Network Theory for Research and Practice

Research and practice in psychiatry and clinical psychology have been guided by differing schools of thought over the years. Recently, the network theory of psychopathology has arisen as a framework for thinking about mental health. Network theory challenges three assumptions common in the field: (1) psychological problems are caused by disease entities that exist independently of their signs and symptoms, (2) classification and diagnosis of psychological problems should follow a medical model, and (3) psychological problems are caused by diseases or aberrations in the brain. Conversely, it embraces many other assumptions that are already well accepted in clinical practice (e.g., the interaction of thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, as posited in cognitive-behavioral therapies) and integrates those assumptions into a coherent framework for research and practice. We review developments in the network theory with a focus on anxiety-related conditions, discuss future areas for change, and outline implications of the theory for both research and clinical practice.