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The Effectiveness of Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) has emerged as a structured and time-limited psychotherapeutic approach for treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), focusing on improving interpersonal functioning and resolving interpersonal problems that contribute to depressive symptoms. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of IPT in reducing depressive symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with MDD. Through an exhaustive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of IPT compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, cognitive-behavioral therapy, supportive therapy) in targeting depressive symptoms, including mood disturbance, interpersonal difficulties, and functional impairment. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist experience, treatment format (individual vs. group), and participant characteristics (e.g., age, comorbidities), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of IPT for MDD.
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References
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