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The Efficacy of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) has emerged as a leading intervention for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms in children and adolescents, integrating cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-specific components. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of TF-CBT in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in youth populations. Through a comprehensive review of the literature, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of TF-CBT compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, supportive therapy) in targeting PTSD symptoms, including re-experiencing, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and hyperarousal. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as trauma type, treatment duration, parental involvement, and participant characteristics (e.g., age, gender, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of TF-CBT for PTSD in children and adolescents.
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References
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