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The Efficacy of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Adolescents with Emotional Dysregulation: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has been increasingly utilized as a treatment approach for adolescents with emotional dysregulation and related difficulties. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of DBT in reducing emotional dysregulation symptoms and improving overall functioning in adolescents. Through an extensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of DBT compared to control conditions (e.g., treatment as usual, supportive therapy) in targeting core symptoms of emotional dysregulation, including mood instability, impulsivity, self-harm behaviors, and interpersonal difficulties. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, mode of delivery (individual vs. group), therapist qualifications, and participant characteristics (e.g., age, gender), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of DBT for adolescents with emotional dysregulation.
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References
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