Applying EMDR on children with PTSD

A child-adjusted protocol for EMDR is suggested after being applied in a RCT for PTSD among traumatized and psychosocially exposed children

Resource Abstract

“Objective: To find out child-adjusted protocol for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

Methods: Child-adjusted modification were made in the original adult-based protocol, and within-session measurements, when EMDR was used in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) on thirty-three 6–16-year-old children with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Results: EMDR was applicable after certain modifications adjusted to the age and developmental level of the child. The average treatment effect size was largest on re-experiencing, and smallest on hyperarousal scale. The age of the child yielded no significant effects on the dependent variables in the study.

Conclusions: A child-adjusted protocol for EMDR is suggested after being applied in a RCT for PTSD among traumatized and psychosocially exposed children.”

—Description from publisher

Resource Access

Open Access

Ahmad, A., & Sundelin-Wahlsten, V. (2008). Applying EMDR on children with PTSD. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 17(3), 127-132. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-007-0646-8