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The Efficacy of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Adolescents with Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has shown promise as an effective intervention for adolescents with Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI), providing skills training and emotion regulation techniques. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of DBT in reducing NSSI behaviors and improving overall functioning in adolescents. Through a comprehensive 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 frequency and severity of NSSI, suicidal ideation, emotion dysregulation, and interpersonal difficulties. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, format (individual vs. group), therapist adherence, and participant characteristics (e.g., age, gender), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of DBT for NSSI in adolescents.
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References
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