Overview
This study aims to examine the effectiveness of group-delivered 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.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Aged between 10 and 18 years;
- Meet the diagnostic criteria or subclinical criteria for Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) , defined as missing either one symptom from the PTSD clusters, or the DSO cluster;
- 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.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Presence of a severe psychiatric disorder or neurodevelopmental disorder, such as schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or other severe psychiatric conditions that would interfere with study participation;
- Presence of a severe physical illness that would impair the ability to engage in the intervention;
- Suicidal ideation within the past six months;
- Ongoing exposure to traumatic events;
- Currently receiving other trauma-focused psychological treatments.