Effectiveness of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Youth with Complex Trauma Exposure: A Systematic Review.
Nicholas M Morelli, David Straub, Kajung Hong et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) for young people exposed to chronic, repeated, prolonged, interpersonal trauma. It included 23 articles representing 21 non-overlapping samples, with a total of 1,728 participants. The review judged TF-CBT a “probably efficacious intervention” for reducing PTSD symptoms in this population, while evidence for reducing ICD-11 complex PTSD symptoms supported a “Possibly Efficacious” classification. TF-CBT was generally considered feasible and acceptable, although the review also identified challenges in delivering it to youth with complex trauma histories.
Key findings
- The review included 23 articles from 21 non-overlapping samples, with a total N = 1,728.
- TF-CBT was classified as “probably efficacious” for reducing PTSD symptoms among youth with complex trauma histories.
- For reducing ICD-11 complex PTSD symptoms, TF-CBT was classified as “Possibly Efficacious.”
- TF-CBT was generally found feasible and acceptable, although qualitative and case studies described delivery challenges.
Why it matters
Youth exposed to complex trauma may present with substantial posttraumatic symptoms, and this review brings together evidence on a widely used treatment in that population. Its differentiated conclusions for PTSD and complex PTSD symptoms help clarify where the evidence is stronger and where it remains less established. Findings on feasibility and acceptability also highlight practical considerations in treatment delivery.
What to keep in mind
The review notes that few studies have investigated TF-CBT in youth exposed to complex trauma; evidence for reducing ICD-11 complex PTSD symptoms is less established than for PTSD symptoms.