Professor Philip C. Kendall, the Lara H. Carnell Professor of Psychology at Temple University, has been the recipient of the APA Award for 2025. He has been awarded on account of his role in applying psychology in the real world. The APA honors anyone whose work furthers theoretical and practical understanding and resolution of societal issues with its award.
To him, a truly Hall of Fame moment
Professor Kendall called it a true “Hall of Fame Moment”. Just like the players’ names in basketball, an American Psychologist journal brings out a special issue every year for the award winners in psychology. For him, it is like a Hall of Fame, and now he is a member of it. This is a moment he takes pride in for his life and career.
Significant contributions in understanding anxiety in children and adolescents
Professor Kendall’s achievements toward the understanding and treatment of anxiety disorders in children and adolescents are among many great things he has done. He is the founder and director of the Child and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders Clinic at Temple University. He has done extensive research to reach the roots of psychological problems in children and treat them practically.
More than 850 research publications and numerous awards
He has authored over 850 scientific articles, over 35 books, and more than 20 treatment manuals to date. The impact of his research is so widespread that he is considered the most widely cited researcher in social and medical sciences. His h-index is 159, which showcases the international recognition of a researcher.
How the Journey Started: From a Wooden Box
His career began with a simple wooden box. He recounted that one time a different professor had used a wooden box as part of an experiment on a rat, with a square design resembling that of a checkerboard. The squares were used to measure the rats’ fear versus sense of security. But Kendall wanted not to work with animals, but humans, especially children. This was the first step toward an understanding of the mental state of children.
The clinic opened in 1985; it has now grown to become an international center
In 1985, Professor Kendall started his clinical work at Temple University in a room barely large enough for a few chairs. Today it has grown into several thousand square feet, having treated over 5000 children to this day. This clinic not only treats children but aims to educate schools, counselors, and parents.
A special technique to cope with anxiety: Coping Cat
Professor Kendall invented a special CBT program for children aged 7-13 named “Coping Cat.” The technique is being implemented worldwide and has now also been adapted for adolescents. The goal is to educate children that anxiety is not a disorder but a feeling that can be recognized and dealt with.
Strong research results
He recalled that in the year 2000, a large study was conducted in which 468 children were treated at six major institutions within America. It was found that 80% of children benefitted from the combination of the Coping Cat Program and medication (sertraline), while 60% of children got better with CBT alone. These results were considered a huge breakthrough in psychology.
Internationale Anerkennung
Kendall shared some cherished memories of his career. The honor from the American Psychological Foundation made him realize that his work was appreciated not just by the United States but the whole wide world. However, the APA award is his favorite since it placed him in a hallowed company he had always treasured.
Conclusion: From a modest beginning to international recognition
The tale of Professor Philip Kendall is a lesson on how great things can arise out of simple beginnings if only you have the desire to pursue something innovative. His contributions in understanding problems associated with children’s anxiety and their treatment have transformed millions of lives. Today, when he was honored by the venerated APA, it is not just his deserving achievement, but rather the achievement of the whole psychology community.
