Psychosocial Interventions for Children and Adolescents After Man-Made and Natural Disasters: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

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Abstract

This meta-analytic review investigates specific psychosocial treatments for children and adolescents after man-made and natural disasters. In a systematic literature search using MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO, as well as hand-searching existing reviews and contacting professional associations, 36 studies were identified. Random- and mixed-effects models were applied to test for average effect sizes and moderating variables. Overall, treatments showed high effect sizes in pre and post comparisons and medium effect sizes as compared with control conditions. Effects were moderated by type of profession (higher level of training leading to higher effect sizes). A number of effective psychosocial treatments for child and adolescent survivors of disasters exist. CBT, EMDR, KIDNET and classroom-based interventions can be equally recommended. Although disasters require immediate reactions and improvisation, future studies with larger sample sizes and rigorous methodology are needed.

Citation

Relevant Evidence Summaries

The evidence was reviewed and included in the following summaries: 

What works to improve mental health of refugee children and adults?

There is very strong evidence that numerous interventions are effective in improving the mental health of child and adult refugees. Specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused interventions (TF), and psycho-education (PE) have been shown to improve symptoms related to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and/or general distress in refugee populations. Furthermore, cultural adaptations of these…

About this study

AGE: Adolescents and/or Youth

AGE: Children

DIRECTION OF EVIDENCE: Positive impact

FULL TEXT AVAILABILITY: Free

HOST COUNTRY: Multiple countries

HOST COUNTRY INCOME: High Income

HOST COUNTRY INCOME: Upper Middle Income

INTERVENTION DURATION: Varies by study

INTERVENTION: Mental health and psychosocial support services

OUTCOME AREA: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Reduction

POPULATION: Unaccompanied Minors

REGION OF ORIGIN OF PARTICIPANT(S): Multiple Regions

STRENGTH OF EVIDENCE: Strong

TYPE OF STUDY: Meta-analysis

YEAR PUBLISHED: 2017

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