Abstract
BackgroundAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with a wide range of diseases, unsafe behavior and shorter life expectancy. However, there is scarce evidence on effective interventions for children or adolescents who report multiple ACEs, including abuse, neglect and household dysfunction. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the mental health outcomes of a multimodal program designed for adolescents with multiple ACEs. ParticipantsForty-four girls (aged 13–16 years, mean ACE score > 5) were randomized to an intervention group or a care-as-usual control group. MethodsThe intervention included mindfulness-based practices, expressive arts and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Integrative) group treatment. We used questionnaires for adolescents to assess trauma (SPRINT, CPSS) and attention/awareness-related outcomes (MAAS-A) at baseline (T1), post-intervention (T2) and two-months post-discharge (T3). ResultsLinear mixed effects model analyses showed significant Group by Time interactions on all the scales (F = 11.0, p = 0.015; F = 12.5 p < 0.001; and F = 6.4, p = 0.001, for SPRINT, CPSS and MAAS-A, respectively). After completing the program, the intervention group showed significant reduction in trauma-related outcomes (SPRINT, Δ%(T2-T1) = −73%, p < 0.001; CPSS, Δ%(T2-T1) = −26%, p < 0.001) while attention/awareness-related outcomes were improved by 57% (p < 0.001). These changes remained stable two months after discharge. SPRINT and CPSS scales were highly correlated (r = 0.833, p < 0.001) and outcomes from both trauma-related scales negatively correlated with mindfulness scores (MAAS-A/SPRINT, r = −0.515, p = 0.007; MAAS-A/CPSS, r = −0.553, p < 0.001). ConclusionsResults presented here support this multimodal group intervention as a feasible and promising program for reducing the psychological burden in adolescents with a history of multiple ACEs.
Highlights
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood or adolescence
The aim of this study was to evaluate the mental health outcomes of a multimodal program designed for adolescents with multiple ACEs
Short PTSD Rating Interview (SPRINT) and Child PTSD Symptom Scale (CPSS) scales were highly correlated (r = 0.833, p < 0.001) and outcomes from both trauma-related scales negatively correlated with mindfulness scores (MAAS-A/SPRINT, r = − 0.515, p = 0.007; Mindful Attention Awareness Scale-Adolescents (MAAS-A)/CPSS, r = − 0.553, p < 0.001)
Summary
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood or adolescence. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the mental health outcomes of a multimodal program designed for adolescents with multiple ACEs. Participants: Forty-four girls (aged 13–16 years, mean ACE score > 5) were randomized to an intervention group or a care-as-usual control group. The intervention group showed significant reduction in trauma-related outcomes (SPRINT, Δ%(T2-T1) = − 73%, p < 0.001; CPSS, Δ%(T2-T1) = − 26%, p < 0.001) while attention/awareness-related outcomes were improved by 57% (p < 0.001). These changes remained stable two months after discharge.
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