Efficacy of EMDR in children: a meta-analysis

Clin Psychol Rev. 2009 Nov;29(7):599-606. doi: 10.1016/j.cpr.2009.06.008. Epub 2009 Jun 24.

Abstract

The efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in children with post-traumatic stress symptoms was meta-analytically examined from the perspective of incremental efficacy. Overall post-treatment effect size for EMDR was medium and significant (d=.56). Results indicate efficacy of EMDR when effect sizes are based on comparisons between the EMDR and the non-established trauma treatment or the no-treatment control groups, and the incremental efficacy when effect sizes are based on comparisons between the EMDR and the established (CBT) trauma treatment. The discussion focuses on the future replication of EMDR findings and further research on post-traumatic stress in children.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Meta-Analysis

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Controlled Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sex Factors
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / diagnosis
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome