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How Psychological Trauma Affects Cognitive Functions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Patrizia Velotti1, Guyonne Rogier2, Francesca Favieri1
1Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome.
Clinical Neuropsychiatry
|April 29, 2026
Summary
Psychological trauma significantly impairs cognitive functions like attention and executive functions. Posttraumatic stress disorder further affects memory, processing speed, and global cognition, highlighting the need for clinical guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Research indicates a link between psychological trauma and cognitive impairments, affecting information processing, attention, and memory.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for clinical practice, but existing literature lacks systematization.
- This study aims to consolidate empirical findings on trauma and cognitive outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the impact of psychological trauma on cognitive functioning.
- To investigate cognitive deficits associated with trauma exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- To provide a comprehensive perspective on the relationship between trauma and cognition for clinical guidance.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, etc.) following PRISMA principles.
- Studies were screened using PICOS criteria, and 29 independent contributions were included in the meta-analysis.
- A random effects model was employed to compute effect sizes and assess between-group differences.
Main Results:
- Psychological trauma significantly impacts cognitive domains, with affected individuals exhibiting poorer cognitive functioning, especially in attention and executive functions.
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with broader cognitive impairments, including deficits in memory, processing speed, visuospatial processing, and global cognitive functioning.
- Meta-analyses confirmed a direct association between trauma exposure and cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms a direct link between psychological trauma and impaired cognitive functioning.
- Findings underscore the importance of considering cognitive deficits in trauma survivors.
- Further research into the characteristics of traumatic experiences is needed to develop clear clinical guidelines.
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