(PS4-C59) Systematic Review of Inclusion of Diverse Identities in Child and Adolescent PTSD Treatment Trials

Evidence-based treatments (EBTs) have been criticized for a lack of representation of sociodemographic subgroups in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and whether EBT psychotherapies are effective for marginalized populations (Grau, Kusch, Williams, et al, 2021). In addition, research has shown that many marginalized groups are more likely to experience trauma and develop PTSD (Williams, Ching, Prince, & Wetterneck, 2018). This project reviews all RCTs for PTSD for children and adolescent in the United States, the reported demographic characteristics (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender, education, immigrant background, adoption/foster care), and the efficacy of these therapies for marginalized traumatized youth.

Method: A literature review was conducted on RCTs for youth with PTSD. Coders reviewed all qualified studies for  sociodemographic/identity-based variables (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender identity, sex, etc.). Additional unreported data was collected by emailing authors of the RCTs to gather information that was not included in the articles with approximately 22% providing more data. Inclusion data was compared to available census data and other sources to assess inclusion in the RCTs.

Results: Similar to the Grau et al. study, most variables of interest were under-represented in the RCTs.

Discussion: Suggestions for a more inclusive approach to recruitment are noted. Modifications for existing treatment approaches are also discussed.