The Effectiveness of Guided Written Exposure Therapy for Complex PTSD in Adolescents: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
This study aims to examine the effectiveness of group Guided Written Exposure Therapy for Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (GWE-C) among Chinese adolescents through a randomized controlled trial. A total of 120 participants will be recruited, with 60 randomized to the GWE-C group and 60 randomized to the supportive therapy (ST) group. The GWE-C intervention will consist of 7 to 10 group sessions. The primary outcome, assessed by the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), will be measured at baseline, post-treatment, 1-month follow-up, and 3-month follow-up.
• Aged between 10 and 18 years;
• Meet the diagnostic or subclinical criteria for Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), defined as missing at most one symptom from either the PTSD or DSO clusters;
• Possess sufficient literacy and language skills to complete writing-based tasks;
• Be able to understand the study procedures and complete the required assessments;
• Provide written informed consent, with consent also obtained from their legal guardians.