Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
08:20
Simultaneous Application of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation during Virtual Reality Exposure
Published on: January 18, 2021
Can asylum-seekers with posttraumatic stress disorder be successfully treated? A randomized controlled pilot study
Frank Neuner1, Silke Kurreck, Martina Ruf
1Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Germany. frank.neuner@uni-bielefeld.de <frank.neuner@uni-bielefeld.de>
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
|October 10, 2009
Summary
Narrative exposure therapy (NET) significantly reduced posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in asylum-seekers compared to treatment as usual. This trauma-focused approach shows promise for individuals facing ongoing adversity.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- High prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among asylum-seekers.
- Asylum procedures and torture-related trauma exacerbate PTSD symptoms and hinder treatment.
- Need for effective interventions for PTSD in vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of trauma-focused Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) for PTSD in asylum-seekers.
- To compare NET with treatment as usual (TAU) in this population.
- To assess treatment outcomes in individuals with PTSD from state-sponsored violence and other traumas.
Main Methods:
- Pilot randomized controlled trial with 32 asylum-seekers diagnosed with PTSD.
- Intervention group received NET; control group received TAU (stabilization and medication).
- Symptom reduction assessed six months post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in posttraumatic stress symptoms observed in the NET group.
- No significant symptom reduction found in the TAU group.
- Moderate treatment gains achieved with NET.
Conclusions:
- Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a promising treatment for PTSD in asylum-seekers.
- NET demonstrates efficacy even in populations facing unstable living conditions.
- Further research is warranted to optimize trauma-focused interventions for this group.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises following exposure to traumatic events such as natural disasters, forced displacement, or severe accidents. It significantly impairs individuals' ability to cope with daily activities and disrupts their emotional and psychological equilibrium.
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
01:24Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
Treatment approaches for psychological disorders fall into three main categories: psychological, biological, and sociocultural. Each approach targets different aspects of mental health, requiring varying levels of education and training.
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...