The efficacy of Narrative Exposure Therapy for Children (KIDNET) as a treatment for traumatized young refugees versus treatment as usual: study protocol for a multi-center randomized controlled trial (YOURTREAT)

Sarah Wilker,Verena Ertl,Frank Neuner,Theodor May,Telja Schmidt,Jasmin Wittmann,Claudia Catani,Areej Zindler,Rita Rosner,Bettina Doering,Melissa Preusse

doi:10.1186/s13063-020-4127-4

Abstract

BackgroundGermany hosts a large number of refugees from war-affected countries. The integration of refugees, in particular young refugees from the Middle East, is one of the major current social challenges in Germany. Mental disorders, first of all post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that results from war experiences, are common among young refugees and interfere with quality of life as well as functional integration. Evidence regarding effective treatment options for this population is scarce. In this trial, we aim to evaluate the pragmatic, short-term psychotherapy Narrative Exposure Therapy for Children (KIDNET) for the treatment of young refugees in Germany.MethodsIn a rater-blinded, multi-center, randomized-controlled trial, KIDNET is compared to treatment as usual (TAU) within the general health care system. A total number of 80 young refugees who fulfill the diagnostic criteria of PTSD will be randomized to either KIDNET or TAU. Diagnostic interviews will take place at baseline before treatment as well as 6 and 12 months thereafter. They will assess exposure to traumatic events, PTSD and comorbid symptoms, as well as parameters of integration.DiscussionThe results of this study should provide evidence regarding effective treatment options for young refugees in Germany, a population that has been understudied and received only limited access to mental health care so far. Next to the effects of treatment on mental health outcomes, integration parameters will be investigated. Therefore, this study should provide broad insights into treatment options for young refugees and their potential implications on successful integration.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien; DRKS), ID: DRKS00017222. Registered on 15 May 2019.

Highlights

Germany hosts a large number of refugees from war-affected countries
Since the likelihood to develop mental health disorders increases with accumulating traumatic events in a dosedependent manner [1, 2], a high prevalence of mental ill-health can be expected in this population, in particular high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and comorbid disorders
Individuals who are screened eligible for the trial will participate in a comprehensive diagnostic interview (t1). Among other information, this structured interview will assess the diagnosis of PTSD according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5)

Summary

Introduction

Germany hosts a large number of refugees from war-affected countries. First of all post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that results from war experiences, are common among young refugees and interfere with quality of life as well as functional integration. Evidence regarding effective treatment options for this population is scarce. In this trial, we aim to evaluate the pragmatic, short-term psychotherapy Narrative Exposure Therapy for Children (KIDNET) for the treatment of young refugees in Germany. Germany is host to a large number of refugees from various war-torn countries. In the home countries as well as on their dangerous journey to Germany, refugees have experienced numerous traumatic experiences. Evidence regarding the prevalence rate of mental health disorders of refugees in Germany is limited. In a representative sample of Syrian refugee children from a German reception camp, PTSD was diagnosed in 33% of children aged 7–14 years [4]

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