Presenter(s)

• Sarah Insko, Doctoral Student, University of Kentucky
• Gabrielle Romines, PhD Student, University of Kentucky
• Amber Watson, Master of Science, School Psychology Doctoral Student
• Kathleen Aspiranti, Associate Professor, University of Kentucky

Abstract

Childhood trauma is increasingly prevalent and may result in catastrophic consequences for the psychological, physical, and educational wellbeing of children and youth. Many trauma-exposed children report a wide array of affective, behavioral, educational, and functional challenges, especially when they do not receive proactive, effective treatment. It is exceedingly clear that trauma has adverse effects on children’s wellbeing and education. The current study presents a meta-analysis that examines which interventions have the greatest effect in decreasing PTSD symptoms for children. The search was conducted in October 2022 and included a 29 studies with 8,198 child participants. Studies that did not use CBT had a greater overall effect size than those that used CBT. Although CBT treatment models have been widely used and validated, the findings of this study support an array of new and varied treatments including EDMR, mind/body therapy, and play/art therapy.