An open access journal
The Effectiveness of Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) has emerged as a prominent treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of PE 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 PE compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, supportive therapy) in targeting core symptoms of PTSD, including re-experiencing, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, session frequency, therapist experience, and participant characteristics (e.g., type of trauma, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of PE for PTSD.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Foa, E. B., et al. (2007). Prolonged exposure vs supportive counseling for sexual abuse-related PTSD in adolescent girls: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 292(8), 961-971.
- Powers, M. B., et al. (2010). Prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD among individuals with a psychotic spectrum disorder: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 23(2), 267-274.
- Schnurr, P. P., et al. (2007). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder in women: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 297(8), 820-830.
- Resick, P. A., et al. (2002). A randomized clinical trial of group cognitive processing therapy compared with group present-centered therapy for PTSD among active duty military personnel. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 70(4), 962-971.
- Rothbaum, B. O., et al. (2005). A controlled study of virtual reality exposure therapy for the fear of flying. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73(2), 421-431.
- Bradley, R., Greene, J., Russ, E., Dutra, L., & Westen, D. (2005). A multidimensional meta-analysis of psychotherapy for PTSD. American Journal of Psychiatry, 162(2), 214-227.