An open access journal
The Efficacy of Exposure Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Military Veterans: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Exposure Therapy (ET) has been recognized as a first-line treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in military veterans, aiming to reduce symptoms of re-experiencing, avoidance, hyperarousal, and negative alterations in mood and cognition. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of ET in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in military veterans. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of ET compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, supportive therapy) in targeting core symptoms of PTSD. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment format (individual vs. group), length of exposure, therapist expertise, and participant characteristics (e.g., combat exposure, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of ET for PTSD in military veterans.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Foa, E. B., et al. (2007). Prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD: Emotional processing of traumatic experiences therapist guide. Oxford University Press.
- Rauch, S. A., et al. (2019). Efficacy of prolonged exposure therapy, sertraline hydrochloride, and their combination among combat veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 76(2), 117-126.
- Schnurr, P. P., et al. (2007). A randomized controlled trial of cognitive processing therapy for veterans with PTSD related to military sexual trauma. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 75(6), 1009-1020.
- Monson, C. M., et al. (2006). Cognitive-behavioral couple therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: Initial findings. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 19(6), 811-821.
- Steenkamp, M. M., et al. (2015). Psychotherapy for military-related PTSD: A review of randomized clinical trials. JAMA, 314(5), 489-500.
- Resick, P. A., et al. (2008). A randomized clinical trial to dismantle components of cognitive processing therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder in female victims of interpersonal violence. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 76(2), 243-258.