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The Efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a widely used intervention for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), aiming to alleviate distressing symptoms by processing traumatic memories and fostering adaptive coping mechanisms. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of EMDR therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with PTSD. Through an extensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, cognitive-behavioral therapy, supportive therapy) in targeting PTSD symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, hyperarousal, and negative cognitions. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist experience, trauma type (e.g., single-event trauma, complex trauma), and participant characteristics (e.g., age, gender), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy for PTSD.
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References
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