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The Efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a promising intervention for treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children and adolescents. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of EMDR therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in this population. 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, supportive therapy) in targeting core symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, hyperarousal, and negative alterations in cognition and mood. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as intervention duration, session frequency, therapist expertise, and participant characteristics (e.g., age, type of trauma), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy for PTSD in children and adolescents.
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References
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