Working towards inclusive and equitable trauma treatment guidelines: a child-centered reflection

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Clinical practice guidelines are crucial for equitable healthcare.
• Trauma treatment guidelines often lack specific considerations for children.
• Inclusion and equity in guideline development are paramount.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the inclusivity and equity of international trauma treatment guidelines concerning children.
• To identify areas for improvement in guideline development processes.
• To propose recommendations for more equitable and inclusive future guidelines.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 14 international trauma treatment guidelines.
• Analysis of guidelines mentioning children's cultural background and participation.
• Assessment of the evidence base and guideline development processes.

Main Results:

• Guidelines inadequately address children's cultural backgrounds, offering limited practical advice.
• A significant "white Western lens" pervades the evidence base and guideline production.
• Children and young people were not consulted in the reviewed guideline development.

Conclusions:

• Current guidelines lack sufficient guidance on culturally tailoring trauma treatment for children.
• Future guideline development must prioritize inclusivity and equity.
• Professional associations should champion research and development for under-represented communities.