Effects of psychotherapy with people who have been sexually assaulted: A meta-analysis

This paper presents the results of a meta-analysis of the treatment outcome studies of different types of psychotherapeutic approaches for sexual assault victims experiencing PTSD or rape trauma symptoms. There were 15 outcome studies identified for inclusion in the meta-analysis dating from 1988–2005, and these studies comprised 25 treatment conditions. Separate meta-analyses were conducted according to study design (independent samples and repeated measures), in keeping with meta-analytic conventions. The overall results for the two meta-analyses were highly consistent, and effect sizes were in the large range for independent samples (g = .91) and repeated measures treatments (g = .90). Effects were maintained at follow-up from 6–12 months after treatment. Studies represented diverse treatment approaches, and most treatments were effective in improving outcome according to symptom reduction. A number of moderating variables were examined. Better outcomes were achieved with individual therapy compared to group approaches. The use of semi-structured approaches and homework techniques were positively related to the magnitude of effect size.