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The Effectiveness of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Military-related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) has emerged as a leading evidence-based intervention for military-related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), targeting maladaptive cognitions and beliefs associated with traumatic experiences. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of CPT in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in military veterans and active-duty service members with PTSD. Through a comprehensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of CPT compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, treatment as usual, other psychotherapies) in targeting symptoms of military-related PTSD, including re-experiencing, avoidance, hyperarousal, and negative alterations in mood and cognition. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist experience, treatment format (individual vs. group), and participant characteristics (e.g., combat exposure, deployment history), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of CPT for military-related PTSD.
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References
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