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The Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a widely used intervention for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of EMDR therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with PTSD. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, active treatments) in addressing core symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative cognitions, and hyperarousal. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, number of sessions, therapist experience, and participant characteristics (e.g., type of trauma, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy for PTSD.
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References
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