A multilevel meta-analysis on the effect of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing externalizing problem behavior in adolescents.

Abstract

Increasingly more research is showing that stress has an influence on the development and maintenance of externalizing problem behavior in adolescents. Stress, for example, causes more impulsivity and limits emotion regulation. Mindfulness focuses on stress reduction and therefore appears to be a (supportive) treatment option with added value for adolescents with externalizing problem behavior. A multilevel meta-analysis (14 studies and 48 effect sizes) was conducted to gain more insight into the effectiveness of this treatment form in reducing externalizing problem behavior. It specifically considered whether the involvement of parents or other combined forms of treatment influenced the effect. The results showed that mindfulness-based interventions are effective in reducing externalizing problem behavior in adolescents, with a large effect size (d = 0.99). The effect was found to be even greater (d = 1.14) after correction for selection bias. The moderator analysis revealed that none of the variables examined had an impact on the effect of mindfulness-based interventions. The results of the moderator analysis should be interpreted with caution. Due to the fact that parents were not involved intensely enough, were barely motivated, and no follow-up data are known about the effectiveness.

Group therapy for youth behavioral concerns: A meta-analysis.

“…Some have broadly provided support regarding the efficacy of psychosocial interventions without focusing on a specific type of intervention (Bakker et al, 2017; Boldrini et al, 2023; Burkey et al, 2018; Fossum et al, 2008, 2016; Granski et al, 2020; Lipsey, 2006; Perlstein et al, 2023). Meta-analyses have also been conducted on specific interventions, which provide support for cognitive behavioral therapy (Battagliese et al, 2015; Bennett & Gibbons, 2000; Riise et al, 2021; Sukhodolsky et al, 2004), mindfulness-based interventions (Hoogsteder et al, 2023), social skills training (Ang & Hughes, 2002), parenting interventions (Beelmann et al, 2023; Cedar & Levant, 1990; Helander et al, 2024; Lundahl et al, 2006; McCart et al, 2006; Menting et al, 2013; Serketich & Dumas, 1996; Tehrani et al, 2023; Uretsky & Hoffman, 2017; Ward et al, 2016), school-based interventions (Aldabbagh et al, 2022; Wilson & Lipsey, 2007), and prevention programs (Grove et al, 2008). Overall, it is evident that psychosocial treatments can be helpful in the management of behavioral concerns.…”

Treatment of aggression regulation problems with virtual reality: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

“…The primary approach to treating aggression regulation problems involves CBT. Overall, research highlights the significant impact of interventions incorporating role-playing, cognitive skills, and homework assignments in treatment, leading to notable decreases in general and/or violent re-offending compared to interventions lacking these elements ( Jolliffe and Farrington, 2007 ; Papalia et al, 2019 ; Hoogsteder et al, 2023a ). Responsive Aggression Regulation Therapy (Re-ART) is an example of an aggression regulation intervention that combines CBT-elements with role-playing and experiential exercises such as chair techniques, imaginations, and mindfulness exercises ( Hoogsteder and Bogaerts, 2018 ).…”