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The Efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained recognition as a prominent treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of EMDR in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with PTSD. Through an extensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of EMDR compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, supportive therapy) in targeting core symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative cognitions, and hyperarousal. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, session frequency, therapist experience, and participant characteristics (e.g., trauma type, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of EMDR for PTSD.
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References
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