Interventions for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms in Adults with a History of Childhood Adversity: Scoping Review

Abstract

Purpose: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) predispose individuals to adult-onset posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with amplified arousal and reactivity symptoms (A&R). This review aimed to identify interventions for reducing A&R symptoms in adults diagnosed with PTSD and a history of ACEs. Method: Systematic scoping review of RCT and quasi-experimental studies in peer-reviewed journals using Arksey and O’Malley’s 5-Stage Framework. Extracted data were analyzed descriptively and thematically. Results: Five articles met inclusion criteria. Skills training in affect and interpersonal regulation (STAIR) with exposure, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-PE), Interpersonal Processing Group Therapy (IPG), and Trauma-informed yoga interventions were identified. STAIR ( d = −1.45, 95% CI [−2.10, −0.80), CBT-PE ( d = −1.21, 95% CI [−1.92, −0.51]), and IPG ( d = −1.33, 95% CI [−2.07, −0.58]) had large effects on A&R symptoms. Discussion: CBT exposure-based treatments were supported interventions for reducing A&R symptoms in adults diagnosed with PTSD and a history of ACEs.