Narrative-based autobiographical memory interventions for PTSD: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Robert Raeder1, Nicola S Clayton1, Markus Boeckle2,3
1Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Frontiers in Psychology
|October 13, 2023
Summary
Narrative-based interventions (NBIs) are effective for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This meta-analysis shows NBIs significantly reduce PTSD symptoms at treatment completion and follow-up, outperforming control groups.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with autobiographical memory (AM) dysfunctions.
- Understanding these memory phenomena is crucial for developing effective PTSD interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy of narrative-based interventions (NBIs) for individuals with PTSD.
- To explore how NBIs influence autobiographical memory distortions in PTSD recovery.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, PubMed).
- Studies were evaluated for eligibility and risk of bias following PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines.
- Meta-analyses were performed to determine the effect size of NBIs on PTSD symptomatology.
Main Results:
- The meta-analysis included 35 studies with 2,596 participants.
- NBIs demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in PTSD symptoms post-treatment and at 3-9 month follow-up.
- NBIs showed superior efficacy compared to active and waitlist control conditions.
Conclusions:
- This meta-analysis provides robust evidence for the effectiveness of NBIs in treating PTSD.
- NBIs appear to be a viable and effective therapeutic option for individuals with PTSD.
- Further research comparing NBIs with non-NBIs can elucidate memory mechanisms in PTSD recovery.
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