Interventions targeting executive functions in children and young people exposed to complex trauma: A systematic review.

In 30 seconds

This PRISMA-guided systematic review examined interventions targeting executive function (EF) in children and young people exposed to complex trauma, including abuse, neglect, and violence. The review identified six studies: three of computerized cognitive training, two of individual education plans, and one of trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy. Findings indicated significant EF improvements with computerized cognitive training and trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy; both approaches were judged to warrant further investigation. The review concluded that the evidence remains insufficient to establish intervention efficacy or inform robust clinical practice guidelines.

Key findings

• The review identified six studies: three evaluated computerized cognitive training, two individual education plans, and one trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy.
• Computerized cognitive training and trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy were associated with significant improvements in executive function and warrant further study.

Why it matters

Executive-function difficulties in young people exposed to complex trauma are linked to poorer academic, social, and relational outcomes and reduced wellbeing. This review identifies two intervention approaches with promising findings, while underscoring that the evidence base is not yet strong enough to establish which approaches reliably improve executive function in this population.

What to keep in mind

The review identified inadequate control groups, limited consensus on classifying executive-function domains, and insufficient delineation of trauma type, onset, and duration.