Individual Paper(s)
Developing and delivering group interventions with war-affected children in DR Congo: Two randomised control trials
Paul O’Callaghan
Queen’s University, Belfast
John McMullen
Queen’s University, Belfast
Objectives: To design, implement and evaluate a group-based, trauma-focused
cognitive behavioural therapy (TF-CBT) intervention with two groups:
i. former boy soldiers;
ii. girls who had been sexually
abused.
Design: Single-blind
randomised controlled trial (RCT) with waiting-list control.
Methods: 54 girls and 50 boys (aged 13-17), in DR Congo were assessed for
symptoms of post-traumatic stress and psychosocial distress by blinded
interviewers. Participants were then randomised to 15 sessions of group-based,
culturally-modified TF-CBT or a waiting-list control group. Assessment
interviews were completed at baseline, post-intervention and three-month
follow-up (intervention group only).
Results: In comparison to the waiting-list control groups, both TF- CBT
intervention groups had highly significant reductions in post-traumatic stress
symptoms, depression/anxiety symptoms,
conduct problems and significant
increases in pro-social behaviour (p<0.001for all). Effect sizes were large.
Treatment gains were maintained at 3-month follow-up.
Conclusions: This intervention was effective in reducing psychological and
psychosocial distress in war-affected children.
