Effectiveness of psychological interventions for child maltreatment: A meta-analysis

A meta-analysis tested the effectiveness of psychological treatments for child maltreatment (CM) using weighted least squares methods (e.g., L. V. Hedges & I. Olkin, 1985). A mean effect size of d₊ = 0.54 (SE = .03, 95% CI = .39-.69) was observed, indicating that on average, treated participants were better off than 71% of those in control groups. Partitioning by type and target of outcome assessment yielded homogeneous effects within each of 5 different outcomes. Treatment effects were weakest when linked to objective behavioral observations of the family (d₊ = .21) and strongest when associated with parent self-reported parenting attitudes and behaviors (d ₊ = .53). Results of other moderator analyses are presented, along with limitations of current CM treatment research; implications for future research, practice, and social policy are discussed.